Living Windows

December 4, 5-8 PM

Dozens of storefronts will come alive during the 23rd annual Living Windows celebration on December 4. This beloved holiday tradition features lights, carolers, story readings, crafts, decorations, gingerbread houses, free horse drawn carriage rides, and more. Santa Claus will be greeting families in his cottage at the Riverfront.

This year, guests can also enjoy a walk through the first ever A Very Vintage Christmas Market on the 700 block of Jefferson. Some of your favorite Jefferson Street Farmers Market and A Very Vintage Market vendors will be bringing Christmas cheer to Downtown. Hot drinks and delicious food will keep the holiday spirit glowing as you browse.

Many Downtown shops will be offering complimentary treats, beverages, and holiday shopping during the event. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an evening out, visit with friends, and celebrate the season in Downtown Burlington.

If you would like to participate in a window, please contact  Amy Moyner at 319-752-6365 or amoyner@greaterburlington.com.

Thank you to our Premier Sponsor, Burlington Riverfront Entertainment!

Thank you to Standard of Beaverdale for being the Trolley Sponsor!

Thank you to Farmers & Merchants Bank & Trust for sponsoring the Ice Carving!

Santa's Cottage

Saturdays in December

The jolly old elf himself will be greeting visitors in Downtown Burlington at the Riverfront Saturdays during December from 1 - 4 PM. (December 6, 13, 20) and during Living Windows December 4 from 5-8PM.

There is no cost, and cameras are welcome. Creating fond memories of Downtown for families today helps build support for Downtown tomorrow.

Many thanks to Carl A. Nelson & Co., The City of Burlington, Boy Scouts Troop 3, Kiwanis and the DPI Design Committee for their assistance with Santa's Cottage. 

Thank you to Kiwanis of Burlington for bringing Santa to Santa's Cottage!

Thank you to the Premier Sponsor, Addington Place of Burlington for bringing Santa and Santa's Cottage to the Downtown!

Miracle on Jefferson Street

December 6

Step into the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season in charming Downtown Burlington at the Art Center of Burlington's Annual Miracle on Jefferson Street on Saturday, December 6! This family-friendly event is a self-guided adventure that begins at the Art Center, where participants can pick up goodie bags anytime after 10 AM. Be sure to start early, as festivities wrap up by 4 PM.

Enjoy a few magical hours visiting over a dozen local businesses that will be hosting fun holiday activities, including small crafts, cookie decorating, family photos, Christmas stories, and a beloved holiday movie.

Perfect for children ages 10 and under, Miracle on Jefferson Street is a wonderful way to celebrate the season. Celebrate a day of creativity, holiday spirit, and community in downtown Burlington!

Eat, Drink & Shop in Downtown Burlington ALL Season Long!

Independent businesses are the backbone of Downtown Burlington. Nearly all downtown businesses are locally owned and operated, making it a distinctive destination. Downtown offers things you simply cannot find anywhere else, unique products, personal services, and a sense of community.

When you support a locally owned business, whether it’s a retail shop, restaurant, or professional service, you are directly supporting your neighbors. These entrepreneurs invest in our community, choose their merchandise, maintain historic buildings, and pay local taxes. Their commitment ensures Downtown Burlington continues to thrive.

There are countless reasons to shop local, but here are just a few: build a strong community, enjoy one-of-a-kind finds, and experience personalized service. This holiday season, make a difference by choosing to eat, drink, and shop in Downtown Burlington.

Your local businesses look forward to welcoming you. Come see what makes Downtown Burlington so special!

Discover the Downtown Burlington Holiday Guide

The holiday season has officially arrived in Downtown Burlington, and we are excited to share our brand-new Holiday Guide. This guide showcases everything that makes our Cultural and Entertainment District shine during this special time of year. Inside you will find a full lineup of seasonal events and experiences, places to shop for the perfect gifts, and the many local restaurants and cafés ready to welcome you throughout the holidays.

The Holiday Guide is designed to help you explore, enjoy, and support our small businesses. When you choose to shop, eat, and drink local, you are directly strengthening our downtown community and helping ensure that these unique businesses continue to thrive.

If you would like a physical copy of the Holiday Guide, you can pick one up at several downtown small businesses. Guides are also available at the Greater Burlington Partnership office. You may request copies by contacting Amy Moyner at amoyner@greaterburlington.com or 319-752-6365.



It is a wonderful season to explore Downtown Burlington. We hope the Holiday Guide inspires you to discover something new, revisit your favorite spots, and celebrate all that is happening in our downtown.

The Nutcracker

December 20

The Nutcracker makes its Burlington debut to make this holiday season more magical than ever!

This dazzling production blends stunning choreography, lavish costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score to bring Clara’s enchanted journey to life. From the epic battle with the Mouse King to the glittering Land of Sweets, The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition for the whole family.



Don't miss your chance to experience the wonder, beauty, and joy of The Nutcracker on the Memorial Auditorium stage!

It’s Happening at the Capitol Theater All Season Long

Downtown Burlington is glowing with holiday cheer, and the Capitol Theater is lighting up the season with a festive lineup of classic holiday movies throughout December. Families, friends, and film lovers can step into the warmth of this historic theater and enjoy beloved favorites on the big screen.

The holiday schedule includes:

December 4

The Muppet Christmas Carol

Free Community Showing

December 5

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

December 6

Elf

December 19

It’s a Wonderful Life

Free Community Showing

December 20

Home Alone

With a mix of free community screenings and timeless holiday hits, the Capitol is the perfect place to create memories and celebrate the joy of the season. Plan a night out, grab some popcorn, and make the Capitol Theater part of your holiday traditions.



It’s Happening in Downtown Burlington all season long.

Blue Violin at The Capitol Theater

December 14

Downtown Burlington will shine even brighter this season when Blue Violin takes the stage at The Capitol Theater on Saturday, December 14.

Hailed as “the best rock and roll violinist of a generation,” Blue Violin delivers a show that mixes masterful classical skill with high energy rock, cinematic sound, and powerful holiday melodies.

Set within a warm glow of candlelight and paired with a dynamic light show, this performance creates a breathtaking holiday atmosphere. The show starts at 7 PM, with VIP access beginning at 6 PM.

If you are looking for a holiday experience that feels fresh, moving, and unforgettable, this is the night to circle on your calendar. It is Happening at The Capitol Theater all season long.

Heritage Hill Luminaria

Friday, December 13



A beloved Burlington tradition returns as the Heritage Hill Historic District glows with thousands of warm, flickering lights. The annual Luminaria is a heartfelt gift to the community, offered each year by the residents of Heritage Hill as a celebration of peace, beauty, and togetherness during the holiday season.

Visitors are invited to stroll the historic neighborhood and experience the charm of candlelit sidewalks, stunning homes, and timeless holiday ambiance. It is a simple and beautiful reminder of what makes Burlington feel like home.



Mark your calendar, gather your family and friends, and make this magical evening part of your holiday traditions. It’s Happening in Downtown Burlington.

Styltique Salon Holiday Open House

December 5

Step into the holiday season with style! Styltique Salon is hosting a festive Holiday Open House on Thursday, December 5 — and you won’t want to miss the fun, pampering, and cheer.

Guests can enjoy specials running all day, perfect for gifting or treating yourself during the busiest season of the year. Plus, stop in to enter drawings for product baskets, pedicures, a flat iron, and even a massage — amazing prizes to help you relax, refresh, and shine bright for the holidays.



Support a beloved local salon, get your glow on, and shop small this season… because it’s all happening in Downtown Burlington!

Holiday Parade Update and Opportunities to Keep the Season Bright

The Kiwanis Lighted Holiday Parade in Downtown Burlington was canceled due to the winter weather that moved into the region. While the decision was difficult, the safety of participants, volunteers, and spectators remained the highest priority. With a full regional community calendar, and logistics, rescheduling the parade was not possible.

Downtown Partners, Inc. extends sincere appreciation to the sponsors whose support remained unwavering throughout this process, including Standard of Beaverdale as Premier Sponsor, Burlington Kiwanis as the presenting organization, and Pritchard Broadcasting as Media Sponsor. Their continued commitment to our community and its traditions is deeply valued.

Although the parade could not take place, Downtown Partners worked throughout the weekend to identify ways for businesses, families, and parade participants to keep the spirit of the season alive. As a result, parade participants were invited to take part in Downtown Living Windows on December 4 by choosing one of three opportunities to showcase their floats:

Option 1: Drive Jefferson Street During Living Windows

Floats were welcome to drive up and down Jefferson Street between 5 and 8 p.m., allowing visitors to enjoy the creativity and effort that would have been on display during the parade.

Option 2: Park and Shine at the Riverfront

Participants were offered the opportunity to park their float on the north side of the Port of Burlington Welcome Center for public viewing throughout the evening.

Option 3: Become a Window Feature

Floats and participants had the option to partner with downtown businesses by decorating or lighting up storefront windows as part of the Living Windows experience.

Downtown Partners also encouraged community members to share photos, videos, and memories from past Kiwanis Lighted Holiday Parades to celebrate the long-standing tradition and continue spreading holiday cheer.

While the cancellation was disappointing for many, the spirit of the season remains strong. Downtown Burlington continues to offer festive experiences throughout the month, and residents are encouraged to support small businesses, enjoy holiday programming, and take part in the many activities that make this district special.



The holiday season in Downtown Burlington is still shining bright, and the community’s resilience and collaboration continue to make it an exceptional place to gather, celebrate, and create memories.

Thank you to Premier Sponsor, Standard of Beaverdale, for making the Lighted Holiday Parade possible!

Thank you to Pritchard Broadcasting for being the Media Sponsor for the Lighted Holiday Parade!

Comedy Thursday Presents: Taylor Mason at Memorial Auditorium December 4

Get ready for an evening of big laughs and unforgettable entertainment. Taylor Mason takes the stage at Memorial Auditorium on Thursday, December 4 at 7:30 PM as part of the Comedy Thursday Series.

A master of quick wit and polished delivery, Taylor Mason has been delighting audiences of all ages for more than 25 years. He brings a one-of-a-kind blend of ventriloquism, music, and stand-up comedy that has taken him around the world and into households across the country. His award-winning career includes television appearances, national comedy tours, commercial work, and even authoring a book on ventriloquism for Penguin Publishing.

This is the perfect night out for anyone who loves clever humor, unique talent, and a feel-good performance that keeps audiences smiling from start to finish.

Age: 21 plus

Location: Memorial Auditorium

Date and Time: Thursday, December 4 at 7:30 PM



Tickets are available now. Do not miss your chance to experience Taylor Mason live as Downtown Burlington keeps the excitement going all season long. It is Happening in Burlington.

Bel Canto Chorale Festival of Lessons and Carols

December 6 & 7

A Community Holiday Tradition

The Burlington Bel Canto Chorale and the Shoquoquon Children's Choir invite you to a cherished holiday tradition, the 2025 Festival of Lessons and Carols.

This beautiful event weaves together timeless readings that share the story of the Nativity with beloved music performed by both choirs.

It is a meaningful opportunity to pause during the busy season, reflect on the true spirit of Christmas, and experience the joy of music with family, friends, and neighbors.

Choose the performance that fits your schedule:

Saturday, December 6 at 7 PM

Sunday, December 7 at 2 PM

Location:

First United Methodist Church, Burlington

Admission is free. All are welcome to attend and share in an inspiring celebration of the season in a beautiful setting.

There’s an App for That and It’s All About Downtown!

If you don’t like fun, this app might not be for you.

But if you do enjoy amazing local eats, stylish boutiques, craft drinks, hidden gems, and stories that bring Downtown Burlington to life, then say hello to your new favorite download: the Downtown App.

Designed with both locals and visitors in mind, this free app puts everything happening in Downtown Burlington right at your fingertips. Whether you're planning your weekend, exploring with out-of-town guests, or just looking for your next favorite lunch spot, the Downtown App makes it easier (and more fun!) than ever.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

• 🍽️ A full directory of our eateries, drinkeries, and sweet spots
• 🛍️ An up-to-date guide to boutique shopping and galleries
• 🎉 A live feed of events, markets, shows, and festivals happening Downtown
• 🗺️ Self-guided walking tours of our public art, historic buildings, and local legends

Whether you're a Downtown regular or a curious newcomer, the Downtown App helps you experience the heartbeat of Burlington in a fresh, interactive way. It's your pocket-sized concierge, tour guide, and event calendar rolled into one.

📱 Download the app now and get exploring!

• Google Play: Click here
• Apple App Store: Click here

Just don’t say we didn’t warn you: fun is highly likely.

It's Happening!

Now Open:

• The Kloset Boutique - 108 N 4th Street
• La Reyna International Store - 404 Jefferson Street
• 369 Aesthetics - 214 Jefferson Street
• Lucid Lotus Holistic Health - 221 N 8th Street
• Musicians Pro Shop - 108 N 4th Street
• Cedar & Vine - 423 N 3rd Street
• The Dandelion - 318 N 4th Street

Thank You:

• We are so thankful for all of the wonderful volunteers and supporters! Downtown Partners, Inc would not be able to host all of the events, tours, and make Downtown so vibrant without you! There are so many hands that help make these events such a success. Thank you to the volunteers, businesses, and community organizations that help create such wonderful memories Downtown!

Don't miss all of the fun at the Art Center of Burlington

• Visit the Art Center of Burlington for winter classes, new art installations, and events for a date night, girls' night out, or family fun!

It's Happening all year long at the Capitol Performing Arts Center

• Visit the Capitol Performing Arts Center for Concerts, Movies, Comedy and more. It's Happening All Year!

The Burlington Public Library has so much scheduled all year long

• There is so much happening at the Burlington Library all winter long! Lots of activities for all ages! Visit the Burlington Public Library Calendar to see what's going on and join in on all the fun!

Grants:

• Blade Sign Grant:

Downtown Partners, Inc. Business Signage Grant Program offers applicants up to $400 in matching grant funds for perpendicular “blade” signage for their businesses!

Blade signs have several benefits:

• Accentuating the traditional historic and walkable character of Downtown Burlington
• Emphasizing the Downtown district as a collection of small, independent, locally owned businesses
• Adding to the liveliness of the streetscape
• Freeing up sidewalk space occupied by sandwich board signs
• Encouraging businesses to explore their individuality and examine their branding
• Increasing business visibility for potential customers who would otherwise not know anything about the business unless they were directly in front of it

If you are interested in applying and for more information please contact Amy Moyner at 319-752-6365 or visit the Blade Sign webpage.

The Downtown Burlington, Iowa Facebook page has reached 15,000 Followers! We hope you are among them!

The Port of Burlington Welcome Center is open Daily, 10 AM – 4 PM. The store is also available ONLINE. Items may be picked up on site or shipped to any destination in the U.S. Follow the Port of Burlington Welcome Center on Facebook to stay in the know when new products are added.

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