2026 Snow Magic Kick-Off

Downtown Ames is always festive during the holidays! Join us for a night of fun holiday themed activities that are great for the whole family.

Downtown Ames businesses, please sign up here ( https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1vMJwj9qGjb0yBd5moCyQo6H8OJtTfdjdVFP_gQY_vhg/edit )!

Snow Magic Kick-Off Activities

Hot ChocolateNeed a little something to warm you up while you explore Downtown? The Salvation Army will be serving hot chocolate in The Depot parking lot near Cornbred. Grab a cup, bundle up, and keep strolling as you take in all the holiday magic happening throughout Downtown Ames.

Live ReindeerYes, you read that right, live reindeer are coming to Downtown Ames! Head to The Depot parking lot for the chance to feed, pet, and snap a photo with these special holiday visitors. Bring the kids, bring your camera, and get ready for a little reindeer magic!

Holiday Window DisplaysDowntown Ames is getting a holiday makeover! Businesses throughout Downtown will be decking out their storefront windows with festive displays for the season. Take a stroll down Main Street, peek in the windows, and see how many holiday scenes you can discover along the way.

CarolersYou might just catch yourself singing along as you stroll through Downtown! “Count Me In,” an a cappella group from Iowa State University, will be performing throughout the event and filling Downtown with the sounds of the holiday season. Stop and listen for a song or two — or join in if you know the words!

*Downtown Ames often takes photographs & video during our events for use on social media or our website. By attending, you agree that Downtown Ames may use any image of you that might appear in photographs or video taken at a Downtown Ames event.*

Event sponsors

Presenting Sponsor

Supporting Sponsor

Reindeer Sponsor

Reindeer Sponsor