The holidays are here, and Waukee is buzzing with Christmas spirit! On this episode of the Waukee Talkee Podcast, Jamie Morrow Thompson highlights a festive lineup of local events, from Santa sightings to holiday music and crafting. Looking for family fun? Kristy from Warrior Lanes shares details about their Ugly Sweater Glow Bowling Holiday Party—for less than $60, your family of five can bowl, eat, and enjoy the fun on Sunday from noon to 1:30 p.m. Register at warriorlanes.com or call 515-987-4840. While you're there, reserve your spot for Countdown to Noon, a New Year’s Eve celebration that’s perfect for families who want to ring in the new year early!

We also talk to Doug and Marci Ostrander, the dynamic duo behind Dougy Doug’s Christmas Light Extravaganza at 3340 Ashworth Road, Waukee, IA. Their synchronized light show, broadcast on 99.5 FM from 6-10 p.m. daily, is a beloved community tradition. They don’t accept personal donations, but any contributions left onsite will be forwarded to Waukee Christian Services. Don’t miss this heartwarming episode celebrating Waukee’s holiday spirit!

• Jingle Bell Stroll @ Grey’s Lake Park
   Saturday, December 7, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  Designed for children 13 & under. Walk along a festive, holiday-themed loop with games, craft stations, holiday music, and hot chocolate. FREE, but registration required.
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• $2 Matinees @ The Fleur Cinema & Cafe
   Saturday & Sunday, December 7-8, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  Featuring the holiday classic movie "Elf."
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• Santa & The Snow Sisters @ Ted Lare Design Build & Garden Center
   Saturday, December 7, 10:00 AM
  Enjoy Christmas in the Garden with crafts, games, and face painting. FREE event.
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• Free Kids Craft Event @ Barista’s Bouquet
   Saturday, December 7, 10:30 AM
  Geared for kids 10 & under. Drop in and decorate ornaments.
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• Santa & His Reindeer @ Miracle on 86th Street
   Saturday, December 7, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  Enjoy pictures with Santa and his reindeer, plus a festive light display.
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• Cookie Decorating Class @ Kids Crate, Polk City
   Sunday, December 8, 1:00 PM & 3:30 PM
  Join Cha Cha's Hyland Bakery to learn royal icing techniques and decorate cookies with kids ages 7-14.
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• Ugly Sweater Family Glow Bowling @ Warrior Lanes
   Sunday, December 8, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
  Family holiday glow bowling party.
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• Toys for Tots Tournament @ Broheim’s Golf
   Friday, December 6, 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  3-Person Best Shot Tournament. $75/person with a toy donation, or $90 without a toy.
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• Christmas Cantata @ Lutheran Church of Hope WDM
   Friday, December 6, 7:00 PM; Saturday & Sunday, December 7-8, 5:00 PM
  Choir and orchestra performances celebrating the birth of Jesus.
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• The Nutcracker @ Hoyt Sherman Place
   Thursday - Sunday, December 5-8, Multiple Showtimes
  Ballet Des Moines presents the holiday classic.
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• B12, Bags & Breathe Pop-Up @ Fit & Fierce 515
   Sunday, December 8, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  Wellness pop-up featuring immunity boosts, IV bags, and more.
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• Teen Super Sunday @ Waukee Public Library
   Sunday, December 8, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
  Cookie decorating contest for students in grades 6-12.
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• Live Music @ Kenny’s Garage
   Friday, December 6, 8:00 PM - The Sons & Sara
   Wednesday, December 11, 6:00 PM - Christmas Cookie, Cocktail, and Costume Contest
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• Ugly Sweater Party @ Mickey’s Waukee
   Saturday, December 7, 8:00 PM
  Featuring the Buckmiller Schwager Band.
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• Holiday Hoedown @ Iowa State Fairgrounds
   Saturday, December 7, 5:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  Ugly sweater night with live music, holiday drinks, and fair-style food. $25.
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• Holiday Trivia @ Either/Or DSM
   Sunday, December 8, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
  Enjoy holiday-themed trivia and cozy vibes.
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