Local Light Displays Worth Visiting

12 Nights of Christmas — Sioux City Railroad Museum

• When: December 3–December 14, 2025, nightly from 6:00–8:30 p.m.

• What to expect: The museum grounds are transformed with holiday lighting, festive decorations, nightly tree-lighting ceremonies, carolers, vendors, and seasonal activities for all ages.

• Cost: Free admission, with a free-will donation suggested to help keep the lights and events running.

• Why go: It’s a charming, family-friendly way to enjoy holiday lights without needing a car ride — perfect for a cozy winter evening in Sioux City.

IBEW Holiday Lighted Parade & Downtown Light Displays — Downtown Sioux City

• Parade Kickoff: The 2025 IBEW Holiday Lighted Parade occurred on Monday, November 24 at 6:15 p.m.

• Core features: Floats, holiday light displays, live performances, and the lighting of the downtown holiday tree in front of the Sioux City Public Museum. Afterward, Santa greeted families at the local gallery at 515 4th Street.

• Extended fun: Many downtown businesses have participated in a holiday storefront decorating competition that runs through December 22, 2025. Residents can stroll through downtown, enjoy the festive windows, and vote for their favorite storefront.

• Why go: It blends community tradition, holiday cheer, and a chance to support local businesses. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups who love a festive downtown stroll with lights, shopping, and a tree-lighting ceremony.

Neighborhood Light Displays Around Greater Siouxland

Local neighborhoods and private homes always bring the holiday spirit to Siouxland. Some areas to check out this season (as of 2025) include:

• Cherrywood Lane / Applewood Ave neighborhood in Morningside (Sioux City) — often decorated with festive lights.

• Blessed Sacrament neighborhood (Jackson & Jones streets between 29th and 30th) — known for neighborhood-wide holiday lighting.

• Grandview Blvd (35th & 36th Street) — another popular spot for home displays.

• Areas in South Sioux City & Dakota City — some homes there decorate each year elaborately, contributing to the broader community holiday ambiance.

Because these displays are run by individual homeowners, lights may go up or down at varying times, but typically stay up through December and sometimes into early January.

✅ Tips for Enjoying the Lights Responsibly

• Plan for weather: December nights can be chilly. Dress in layers, bring blankets or hot drinks, and wear good footwear if you plan to walk.

• Be respectful: Drive slowly through neighborhoods so you don’t block traffic or disrupt residents. If you walk, use sidewalks when available, and refrain from loud noise.

• Support local businesses: Many downtown shops participate in the storefront lighting competition. Consider grabbing a hot cocoa or browsing holiday sales while you’re there.

• Use public events as anchors: Events like the Railroad Museum’s 12 Nights of Christmas or the lighted parade are family-friendly and often include special activities for kids — great for a full evening out.