Christmas in LeClaire, Iowa
Holiday events and shopping await!
The QC’s cherished holiday tradition is back! Join us for the 41st annual Christmas in LeClaire, December 5–7, 2025, when our charming riverfront town celebrates the season with family fun, shopping, twinkling lights and hometown spirit.
This beloved three-day tradition brings together everything you love about the holidays, with events that offer something for everyone. Stroll through downtown LeClaire as shops open their doors with specials, sweet treats and cozy holiday vibes.
Catch a glimpse of Strolling Santas and holiday characters, hop on a free trolley or wagon ride or watch as the town lights up the night with the Light Up LeClaire Parade. Whether you’re here for the day or the whole weekend, you’ll find plenty of ways to make merry.
From craft fairs to craft brews, it’s the perfect weekend to get in the holiday spirit, riverfront style.
Christmas in LeClaire business specials
Shop small, shop local and take home a little piece of LeClaire charm. During Christmas in LeClaire weekend, many of our boutiques, antique shops and local businesses will be open with extended hours and holiday deals and festive surprises throughout downtown.
It’s the perfect time to cross names off your list – or treat yourself to something special while supporting the small businesses that make our community shine.
Need a lift? Hop on the Holiday Trolley!
Make your way around town with ease – and a bit of vintage charm – on our free holiday trolley! Sit back, enjoy the lights and let us get you to all the sights: from festive storefronts and Strolling Santas to cozy cafés
The trolley runs Saturday from 11 AM–5 PM and Sunday from 11 AM–3 PM, with stops at:
- MindFire’s Parking Lot – 126 S. Cody Road
- Cody Mart – 1220 N. Cody Road
- Mississippi Cottage Antiques – 606 N. Cody Road
- Dwellings – 414 N. Cody Road
- Fareway Grocery Store – 1301 Eagle Ridge Road
Light up LeClaire
Let’s light up the night! Join us on Saturday, December 6 at 5:30 p.m. for the Annual Light Up LeClaire Parade, where cars, trucks, golf carts and even UTVs roll through town decked out in lights and holiday flair.
The parade will travel down Wisconsin Street from 15th to 3rd Street, filling the night with sparkle, laughter and holiday spirit. Entry is free, but registration is required – and prizes await the brightest displays!
Ugly Sweater 5K and Kids’ Fun Run
Ugly sweaters encouraged, holiday spirit required! Join the fun at the Ugly Sweater 5K and Kids’ Fun Run on Saturday, December 6, starting at the LeClaire Civic Center.
Whether you run, walk or dance your way across the finish line, this festive tradition is a crowd favorite for all ages. Afterward, stick around for walking tacos, a live DJ, an ugly sweater contest and special post-race drink deals at local spots.
- Kids’ Reindeer Dash: 9:30 a.m.
- 5K Start Time: 10 a.m.
- Location: LeClaire Civic Center
Schedule of Events
Find your way to holiday cheer!
Friday, December 5th, through Saturday, December 7th.
Click Open (+) to view each day’s events.
FRIDAY SCHEDULE
Friday, December 5
- A Special Christmas Scavenger Hunt and Coloring Contest
Buffalo Bill Museum | 199 Front Street
All Ages | 9 am-5 pm
A Special Christmas Scavenger Hunt and Coloring Contest is coming to the Buffalo Bill Museum in LeClaire — where our storied past comes alive with festive charm. Step inside for a day filled with history, holiday cheer and the unmistakable warmth of our river town community.
From twinkling lights against the Mississippi to stories that spark wonder, this holiday event blends the timeless character of LeClaire with joyful moments you’ll want to share.
Admission: Adults (13-64) $7 | Seniors (65+) $5 | Youth 12 and under FREE during Christmas in LeClaire - Cookie Sale
Snow Masonic Lodge | 113 S. Cody Road
All Ages | 10 am-5 pm
Step inside for a cozy holiday treat filled with homemade cookies, soups, sandwiches and the work of local crafters. It’s the season’s “Found it in LeClaire” best with authentic shopping and one-of-a-kind crafts. - Craft Fair, Silent Auction and Bake Sale
LeClaire Civic Center | 127 S. Cody Road
Kid Fun | 10 am-8 pm
The LeClaire Civic Center welcomes families for an evening of whimsy and wonder with Jason Hamilton, an award-winning magician and balloon artist. Children can experience the joy of handcrafted balloon animals, while parents take in the warmth and spirit of a community that has always cherished gathering together. - Santa’s Gift Shop
LeClaire Civic Center | 127 S. Cody Road
Kid Fun | 11 am-8 pm
The LeClaire Civic Center transforms into a winter wonderland just for kids, where young shoppers can browse a festive marketplace filled with holiday cheer. Armed with their “Christmas in LeClaire Dollars,” children pick out special gifts for family and friends all on their own. It’s a joyful tradition that brings smiles, independence and a little holiday magic to the heart of LeClaire. - Grasshoppers Craft Fair
Grasshoppers Gatherings Event Venue | 208 N. Cody Road
All Ages | 4 pm-8 pm
Over 18 vendors – everything from food to jewelry to crafts. - Ugly Christmas Sweater 5K Run Packet Pick-up
LeClaire Rec Center | 429 N. 3rd Street
All Ages | 5 pm-7 pm
Get ready to don your most festive attire and swing by the LeClaire Rec Center for packet pickup before the Ugly Christmas Sweater 5K Run. It’s the first step toward a holly-jolly dash through the town – a spirited celebration of holiday fun and community cheer! - Balloon Artist
LeClaire Civic Center | 127 S. Cody Road
All Ages | 5 pm-8 pm
The LeClaire Civic Center welcomes families for an evening of whimsy and wonder with Jason Hamilton, an award-winning magician and balloon artist. Children can experience the joy of handcrafted balloon animals, while parents take in the warmth and spirit of a community that has always cherished gathering together. - Cocktails
Mississippi River Distilling Company | 303 N. Cody Road
Adult Activity | 5:30 pm-8 pm
Experience an evening of festive flair at the Mississippi River Distilling Company’s Cocktail House, where holiday spirits come to life in every pour. Savor expertly crafted seasonal cocktails and enjoy the cozy charm of a gathering spot that captures the heart of the holidays – with a few surprise delights along the way. - Tree Lighting Ceremony
LeClaire Levee South-end | 110 N. Front Street
Family Friendly | 5:30 pm-8 pm
Gather at the south end of the LeClaire Levee for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony – a heartwarming tradition that kicks off the holiday season in true small-town style. Enjoy festive music, sip on hot chocolate and share in the glow as the lights bring LeClaire’s holiday spirit to life.
SATURDAY SCHEDULE
Saturday, December 6
- Breakfast with Santa
LeClaire Happy Joe’s | 119 N. Cody Road
All Ages | 8 am-10 am
Breakfast 8am-Noon. Santa 9-11am.
Cost: $6.50 kids; $14 adults - Reindeer Dash
LeClaire Civic Center Parking Lot | 127 S. Cody Road
All Ages | 8 am-10 am
Little ones can dash into the holiday spirit at the Reindeer Dash – a festive one-mile fun run for kids 12 and under, held outside the LeClaire Civic Center. It’s a jolly burst of energy, excitement and cheer that’s sure to start the day with smiles and holiday magic. - 10th Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater 5K Run
LeClaire Civic Center Parking Lot | 127 S. Cody Road
Adult Activity | 10 am-12 pm
Don your wildest holiday wear and hit the pavement for the Ugly Christmas Sweater 5K, starting at the LeClaire Civic Center parking lot. Whether you run, walk or jingle all the way, this merry event is fun for all ages – complete with an Ugly Sweater Contest and festive post-race celebrations! - Strolling Santas
Throughout Downtown LeClaire | Downtown
All Ages | 10 am-12 pm
Downtown LeClaire comes alive with the magic of the season as Strolling Santas and Christmas characters from Around the World fill the streets. These festive figures greet visitors, pose for photos and share sweet treats – adding a whimsical, global twist to your holiday experience. - A Special Christmas Scavenger Hunt and Coloring Contest
Buffalo Bill Museum | 199 Front Street
All Ages | 9 am-5 pm
A Special Christmas Scavenger Hunt and Coloring Contest is coming to the Buffalo Bill Museum in LeClaire — where our storied past comes alive with festive charm. Step inside for a day filled with history, holiday cheer and the unmistakable warmth of our river town community.
From twinkling lights against the Mississippi to stories that spark wonder, this holiday event blends the timeless character of LeClaire with joyful moments you’ll want to share.
Admission: Adults (13-64) $7 | Seniors (65+) $5 | Youth 12 and under FREE during Christmas in LeClaire - Cookie Sale
Snow Masonic Lodge | 113 S. Cody Road
All Ages | 10 am-5 pm
Step inside for a cozy holiday treat filled with homemade cookies, soups, sandwiches and the work of local crafters. It’s the season’s “Found it in LeClaire” best with authentic shopping and one-of-a-kind crafts. - Craft Fair, Silent Auction and Bake Sale
LeClaire Civic Center | 127 S. Cody Road
Kid Fun | 10 am-8 pm
The LeClaire Civic Center welcomes families for an evening of whimsy and wonder with Jason Hamilton, an award-winning magician and balloon artist. Children can experience the joy of handcrafted balloon animals, while parents take in the warmth and spirit of a community that has always cherished gathering together. - Grasshoppers Craft Fair
Grasshoppers Gatherings Event Venue | 208 N. Cody Road
All Ages | 10 am-8 pm
Over 18 vendors – everything from food to jewelry to crafts. - Santa’s Work Shop
Snow Masonic Lodge, 2nd floor | 113 S. Cody Road
Kid Fun | 11 am-4 pm
Children are invited to Santa’s Workshop on the 2nd floor of the Snow Masonic Lodge, where a merry afternoon awaits with crafts, activities and tasty snacks to delight young holiday enthusiasts. It’s a joyful space to create, celebrate and embrace the magic of the season. - Santa’s Gift Shop
LeClaire Civic Center | 127 S. Cody Road
Kid Fun | 11 am-4 pm
The LeClaire Civic Center transforms into a winter wonderland just for kids, where young shoppers can browse a festive marketplace filled with holiday cheer. Armed with their “Christmas in LeClaire Dollars,” children pick out special gifts for family and friends all on their own. It’s a joyful tradition that brings smiles, independence and a little holiday magic to the heart of LeClaire. - Free Trolley Rides
Mindfire Parking Lot | 126 S. Cody Road
All Ages | 11 am-5 pm
Hop on and off the free trolley as it stops at five festive spots throughout LeClaire. Catch a ride at MindFire’s parking lot and enjoy easy access to local favorites like Cody Mart, Mississippi Cottage Antiques, Dwellings and Fareway – perfect for a day of holiday shopping and exploring. - Photos with Santa
LeClaire Levee | 17 S. Front Street
All Ages | 1 pm-3 pm
Capture holiday memories with Santa in front of a vintage car, set against the scenic Mississippi River backdrop. This charming photo opportunity is a perfect setting for festive family photos to treasure for years to come. - Strolling Santas
Throughout Downtown LeClaire | Downtown
All Ages | 1 pm-3 pm
Downtown LeClaire comes alive with the magic of the season as Strolling Santas and Christmas characters from Around the World fill the streets. These festive figures greet visitors, pose for photos and share sweet treats – adding a whimsical, global twist to your holiday experience. - Balloon Artist
LeClaire Civic Center | 127 S. Cody Road
All Ages | 1 pm-4 pm
The LeClaire Civic Center welcomes families for an evening of whimsy and wonder with Jason Hamilton, an award-winning magician and balloon artist. Children can experience the joy of handcrafted balloon animals, while parents take in the warmth and spirit of a community that has always cherished gathering together. - Caroling up-and-down Cody Road
by LeClaire Baptist Church singers
Starting at 1pm
Caroling near the shops on Cody Road on Saturday starting at 1pm. - Parade Watch
Baptist Church | 1326 Wisconsin Street
All Ages | Starts at 5:00 pm – During the Lighted Parade
Serving cocoa and coffee starts at 5pm at the LeClaire Baptist Church at 14th and Wisconsin Streets. - Light Up LeClaire Christmas Parade
Wisconsin Street ending at 3rd Street
All Ages | 5:30 pm
Join the community for the Light Up LeClaire Christmas Parade, presented by LeClaire Parks and Recreation. Lighted vehicles will travel down Wisconsin Street to 3rd Street, spreading holiday cheer and brightening downtown LeClaire with festive spirit.
Sign Up Here! - Live Nativity
Near Aunt Hattie’s | 102 S. Cody Road
All Ages | 5 pm-7 pm
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
Sunday, December 7
- Craft Fair, Silent Auction and Bake Sale
LeClaire Civic Center | 127 S. Cody Road
Kid Fun | 11 am-4 pm
The LeClaire Civic Center welcomes families for an evening of whimsy and wonder with Jason Hamilton, an award-winning magician and balloon artist. Children can experience the joy of handcrafted balloon animals, while parents take in the warmth and spirit of a community that has always cherished gathering together. - Horse Drawn Wagon Rides
LeClaire Levee | 17 S. Front Street
All Ages | 11 am-2 pm
Enjoy a scenic horse-drawn wagon ride along the LeClaire Levee – a charming way to take in the sights of the season. With plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way, it’s a picture-perfect experience that captures the holiday spirit in LeClaire. - Free Trolley Rides
Mindfire Parking Lot | 126 S. Cody Road
All Ages | 11 am-3 pm
Hop on and off the free trolley as it stops at five festive spots throughout LeClaire. Catch a ride at MindFire’s parking lot and enjoy easy access to local favorites like Cody Mart, Mississippi Cottage Antiques, Dwellings and Fareway – perfect for a day of holiday shopping and exploring. - A Special Christmas Scavenger Hunt and Coloring Contest
Buffalo Bill Museum | 199 Front Street
All Ages | Noon-5 pm
A Special Christmas Scavenger Hunt and Coloring Contest is coming to the Buffalo Bill Museum in LeClaire — where our storied past comes alive with festive charm. Step inside for a day filled with history, holiday cheer and the unmistakable warmth of our river town community.
From twinkling lights against the Mississippi to stories that spark wonder, this holiday event blends the timeless character of LeClaire with joyful moments you’ll want to share.
Admission: Adults (13-64) $7 | Seniors (65+) $5 | Youth 12 and under FREE during Christmas in LeClaire. - Grasshoppers Craft Fair
Grasshoppers Gatherings Event Venue | 208 N. Cody Road
All Ages | Noon-4 pm
Over 18 vendors – everything from food to jewelry to crafts. - Strolling Santas
Throughout Downtown LeClaire | Downtown
All Ages | 1 pm-3 pm
Downtown LeClaire comes alive with the magic of the season as Strolling Santas and Christmas characters from Around the World fill the streets. These festive figures greet visitors, pose for photos and share sweet treats – adding a whimsical, global twist to your holiday experience. - Great Shopping & Dining
Throughout LeClaire | LeClaire Business District
All Ages | Throughout the Day
Throughout Christmas in LeClaire festivities, explore all the charm our river town has to offer with unforgettable shopping and dining experiences. From one-of-a-kind gifts at our locally owned shops to delicious seasonal specials at cozy restaurants, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while soaking in the holiday spirit. - Library Holiday Photos and Crafts
LeClaire Community Library | 323 Wisconsin St
Celebrate the season at the LeClaire Library, where the Fireplace Room will be beautifully decorated for family holiday photos and festive craft activities. Enjoy a cozy, family-friendly Christmas in LeClaire event filled with holiday spirit — a perfect way to make memories together.
Library Hours are:
Friday: 10am-5pm
Saturday: 10am-2pm
Sunday: Closed
Christmas in LeClaire Walking Map
Click below to download the walking map — print it or save it to your phone for easy access on your walk.
Coming Soon!
Find Your Way to LeClaire
