Light up the Carousel for the Holidays

Kick off the holiday season and light up the Heritage Carousel!

Sunday, Dec 7, 2025

5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Union Park, 1801 Pennsylvania Ave., Des Moines, IA

Join us at Union Park as we light the tree, enjoy FREE carousel rides, and welcome Santa back for the season. Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, live music from the Greater Des Moines Community Band, and get a FREE holiday ornament (one per family, while supplies last).

🌲 New this year: step into The Understory — a whimsical, fairy-inspired miniature world nestled beneath the pine trees around the carousel, created in partnership with InvestDSM and the Union Park neighborhood.

🎁 Skip the line with the Rudolph Club!
A $50 minimum donation lets your party of five or fewer jump to the front of the line at your designated time. Spots are limited, so grab your Rudolph Club Ticket here on Eventbrite! All donations support the maintenance of the Carousel and keep our regular-season ride prices low for kids and adults alike!

Thank you to our generous sponsors for making this beloved holiday event shine.
Union Park Neighborhood Association
Polk County Board of Supervisors
Invest DSM
Captain Roys
Chocolate Storybook
The Greater Des Moines Community Band
TandemHart Paperie