DES MOINES, Iowa — It might not be a white Christmas in central Iowa this year, but there are other ways to channel that holiday spirit.
Local 5 rounded up five events and activities taking place Dec. 22-24 to help you make the most of your weekend.
Celebrate everything Des Moines and the surrounding areas have to offer this holiday season, from sports, to skating, to holiday lights.
Have an event you want featured in Local 5's Weekend Guide? Text us at 515-457-1026 or email us at news@weareiowa.com.
Friday, Dec. 22 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 23 at 6 p.m. | Wells Fargo Arena (730 3rd Street, Des Moines) | Tickets start at $18
Celebrate the holiday season with hockey! The Iowa Wild will face off against the Manitoba Moose on Friday and Saturday. Both games are a part of the Iowa Wild's Winter Wonderland Weekend. Be on the look out for fun perks such as $2 beers, an ugly sweater scarf giveaway and discounted cocktails.
Friday, Dec. 22 and Saturday, Dec. 23 | Reiman Gardens (1407 University Boulevard, Ames) | $15 for adults, $7 for kids ages 2-12
Get outdoors this holiday weekend by enjoying a walk-through holiday light show at Reiman Gardens. The 17-acre site will be decked out in holiday lights, including "fantasy lights falling like stars" and "massive disco balls twirling to laser lights".
Snag tickets while you can, because some days sell out quickly. The Winder Wonderscape operates using a "timed ticketing" system, where you'll select a specific entry window to reduce crowding. Be sure to dress for the weather and bring your holiday cheer!
Friday, Dec. 22 through Sunday, Dec. 24 | Living History Farms (11121 Hickman Road, Urbandale) | Tickets start at $32.99 per vehicle
Don't worry about finding holiday lights this weekend: this drive-thru show has you covered. Santa's Rock N Lights will be open this holiday weekend, and all you have to do is buy tickets and hop in the car. The show features over one mile of lights set to music, including dancing light tunnels, 3D light sculptures and more.
Friday, Dec. 22 and Saturday, Dec. 23 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 24 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Brenton Skating Plaza (520 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines) | $10 for adults, $6 for seniors and kids 6-12
Brenton Skating Plaza is open all season, but the weekend before Christmas is the perfect time to channel your inner Hallmark movie character. Bring your own skates or rent them for $5 and enjoy some frosty fun in the heart of downtown Des Moines.
Bonus: If you're looking for a fun, family activity on Christmas, the plaza will also be open on Christmas Day, 3:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 23 and Sunday, Dec. 24, 1 p.m. | Varsity Cinema (1207 25th Street, Des Moines) | $12 for adults, $9 for kids, seniors and students
Grab some popcorn and catch a Christmas classic at the Varsity Cinema. Released in 1992, "The Muppets Christmas Carol" retells the story of one Ebenezer Scrooge as he's visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Most importantly, all your favorite Muppets also make an appearance. With two showings this holiday weekend, it's a perfect festive activity for your whole family.