It’s December already (it’s December already?!) and the time has come to eat cookies daily and sing Christmas songs to your heart’s content. Holiday-themed events are springing up all over the Des Moines metro area, from the Jolly Holiday Lights display in Water Works Park to the annual Jingle in the Junction nights at West Des Moines’ Valley Junction. Waukee is adding to the cheer with two events right in its own community. Waukee Library’s Festival of Trees and Wreaths is happening this evening, December 4th, and tomorrow night, on December 5th , Waukee will hold its annual WinterFest.
At the Festival of Trees and Wreaths, held at 6:30 tonight at the Waukee Public Library, visitors will get a chance to see trees and wreaths decorated by individuals, families, and businesses of the community. The library will become aglow with warmth during the lighting ceremony at 6:30, after which little ones will be able to enjoy story time amid the sparkling trees. The event features live music and refreshments, and all proceeds will benefit the Waukee Public Library Foundation. The Teen Advisory Board, which helps to provide activities for Waukee teens, will also be holding a silent auction during the evening.
From December 5th to the 19th, members of the community are able to vote for their favorite wreath or tree. Each vote costs $1, which supports the library’s ability to keep its shelves full of books, audio books, and movies. The winning trees and wreaths will be announced on December 19th.
Kristine Larson, director of the Waukee library, says, “This is a very important event for the Waukee community. It promotes community engagement and encourages citizens to come together to celebrate the holiday season.”
Larson emphasizes that community events like the library’s Festival help people to slow down together during this particular month: “Especially when things are hectic this time of year, it’s important to connect with your fellow community members to celebrate and enjoy the season and the great community of Waukee.”
At Waukee’s Winterfest at 6:00pm on Friday night in Triangle Park, the fun starts when the jolly old man himself lights the WinterFest holiday tree. The event will continue inside Waukee’s community center, where the kiddos can visit with Santa and everyone can enjoy hot chocolate and refreshments. Those who wish to linger in the park will be rewarded with a ride on an old-fashioned trolley to see some of Waukee’s beautifully decorated homes. WinterFest also features a toy drive to benefit those dealing with financial difficulties this holiday season.
So, if you’ve been in need of a December pick-me-up, look no further than these two wonderful and local holiday events. As you gather your loved ones around you and set out to meet new friends in your own community, you’ll be filled with the joy and gratitude of this beautiful season.