Council Bluffs is set to kick off the holiday season with the return of Winterfest at Bayliss Park on Friday, November 22, from 6 to 8 p.m. The beloved community event, now a local tradition, promises an evening of festive activities, live entertainment, and a tree-lighting ceremony.
Hosted by the City of Council Bluffs in partnership with local organizations, including The Council Bluffs Public Library, The 712 Initiative, The Salvation Army, Union Pacific Museum, and Pottawattamie Arts, Culture & Entertainment (PACE), Winterfest offers something for all ages.
The festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. with the tree lighting ceremony, where Santa Claus and Mayor Matt Walsh will lead the crowd in a song of "Jingle Bells" and then countdown from ten to light the park with over 60,000 twinkle lights.
"Winterfest started as a simple tree lighting in Bayliss Park, and each year, we've added new activities to accommodate the growing crowd," said Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available in their tent for photos during Winterfest. Children who want to send their wishes without waiting in Santa's line can write and drop off their letters at a Letters to Santa station, complete with a North Pole Mailbox.
New attractions have been added to help reduce wait times for activities. In addition to face painting, balloon art, and holiday-themed photo cutouts, families can enjoy an outdoor screening of the movie Frozen. Plus, three beloved characters from the film will be on site for a meet-and-greet and photos.
Winterfest also expands its popular horse-drawn carriage rides by adding a second carriage, offering even more chances to enjoy the experience. The carriages will provide three-minute rides in a loop along 1st Avenue on the north side of Bayliss Park. Additionally, the fan-favorite Grinch bike rides return, with the Grinch pulling a four-person carriage along Pearl Street.
Thanks to PACE, there will be ice sculpting and ornament making. The Council Bluffs Public Library will bring real reindeer to Bayliss Park and a reindeer food-making station. The Salvation Army Brass Ensemble will perform on the corner of Willow Avenue and Pear Street. The Salvation Army will also provide free hot chocolate to keep guests warm as they enjoy the festivities.
For those looking to do some holiday shopping, The 712 Initiative's Makers Market returns this year. The Makers Market will have local vendors selling unique, handmade gifts in a pop-up market on Pearl Street. A selection of food trucks will also be on-site, offering concessions for purchase.
Guests are encouraged to arrive early, as the lighting ceremony will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. On-street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhoods, and folks should expect traffic delays.
"Winterfest has become a hallmark of our community, and we hope everyone can join us for the moment when Bayliss Park transforms into a winter wonderland," said Mayor Walsh. "It's a great way to kick off the holiday season and enjoy some time with family and friends."
Winterfest at Bayliss Park is free and open to the public. For more information, follow the City of Council Bluffs on Facebook @CityofCB.
