Posted by Katie on Wednesday, Dec 4, 2024
The other night my son and I came downtown and he was happy to see the scribble lights were back up on the Ped Mall for the third year in a row. This unconventional take on holiday lights has become a local symbol of the holiday season as holiday shoppers set out to enjoy our beautiful downtown during the season of lights. Throughout the downtown stores and other businesses get in on the fun, decorating windows and welcoming shoppers. The downtown gets artsy influx of shoppers the weekend of Dec. 6, with two special events featuring handmade artist creations! This holiday season, embrace the festive spirit with these unique events in the Downtown Iowa City Cultural & Entertainment District:
1. Eastside Artists Show
Dates: Nov. 29–Dec. 1 & Dec. 6–8
Support local artists and find truly unique holiday gifts at this annual event, showcasing a variety of handcrafted goods. From pottery and textiles to jewelry and fine art, there's something for everyone. Held at the Masonic Building, it’s a must-visit for art lovers and holiday shoppers alike. Details at Eastside Artists.
2. ICPL Friends Foundation Arts & Crafts Bazaar
Date: Dec. 6, 5:30 -7 PM
The ICPL Arts & Crafts Bazaar Preview Party will be a festive event with treats and drinks, holiday music, and the company of other Library supporters! The party is available to all ICPL Staff, Supporters, Crafters and Artists contributing to the Bazaar. To be eligible for event access, ICPL Supporters should donate any size in advance of the event or have made a donation in the last twelve months of any size. More info here.
Date: Dec. 7, 10 AM–3 PM
Discover a treasure trove of handmade goods at the Iowa City Public Library's Arts & Crafts Bazaar. This event features creations from talented local artisans, with proceeds supporting the Library's programs and services. It’s an ideal way to shop for meaningful gifts while giving back to the community. Learn more here.
3. Free DIY Gift Wrapping at the Library
Date: Now until year end
Save time (and your budget) with free gift-wrapping supplies provided by the Library. Drop in and use the paper, ribbons, and tags to make your gifts look festive. Whether you’re wrapping purchases from the other holiday events or your own finds, this is a stress-free way to check wrapping off your list. Info here.
Celebrate the season by supporting local creativity, shopping thoughtfully, and wrapping it all up with community care!
About the Author
Katie Roche works at the Library as the Development Director of the Iowa City Public Library Friends Foundation, which works to inspire every member of our community to support the Iowa City Public Library as a Library user, volunteer, or donor. Katie loves to read widely and especially enjoys reading in anticipation of events featuring writers...
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