
Friday & Saturday, December 4-5, 2026
𝑨 𝑪𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒔𝒕 is set to return on Friday, December 4 & Saturday, December 5, 2026 in historic West Branch, Iowa (just 6 miles from Iowa City down I-80). Join us for West Branch’s traditional holiday festival featuring timeless activities throughout Main Street and beyond including horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides, photos with Santa, train display, festival of trees, silent auction, treats around the fire and more!
Stay tuned for 2026 Updates!
Featured Activities
These are a few of our favorite timeless traditions to enjoy during
A Christmas Past:

Timeless Tradition
Festival of Trees
This year’s theme is “Kaleidoscope of Christmas" and celebrates the beauty of the season through vibrant hues! Each of the 15 Christmas trees is fully decorated in a single, striking color — together forming a breathtaking display of holiday cheer. Hosted by the Hoover Presidential Foundation at the Rummells Center both days.

Timeless Tradition
Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides
Available for free from 5-8pm Friday and 4-8pm Saturday, these enchanting rides are perfect for sharing with family and friends as you take in the holiday magic. ✨
Line up and load at Mural Park (corner of 2nd Street and Main, across from the Fire Station). We recommend getting cocoa first!

Timeless Tradition
Photos with Santa
Stay cozy indoors while you wait, with fun kids' coloring activities to keep the little ones entertained. Santa’s cheerful elves will be on hand to help snap a photo of the whole family using your own camera. Free! Located in Town Hall both evenings. Please enter using the North door.

Timeless Tradition
Model Train Display
Watch as O-gauge trains wind their way through the winter landscape — over bridges, through tunnels, and past a bustling town square where carolers sing, skaters glide, and cozy cottages glow with holiday light. Each scene is crafted by hand to bring back the nostalgic charm of an old-fashioned Christmas. View at the Fire Station!
Event Map

THANK YOU
to our generous sponsors:







