This week on the Waukee Talkee Podcast, we’re diving into the final stretch before Thanksgiving with timely tips and festive updates for the whole family. Our first guest, Nick Lenters of Old Station Craft Meats, shares expert advice on selecting, thawing, and preparing the perfect turkey. If turkey isn’t your go-to, Nick’s got you covered with creative alternatives to delight your holiday table.

Next, Jess Passick joins us to highlight the 3rd Annual A Night Under the Lights event on November 27th. This dazzling light parade and vendor village is the perfect way to kick off Thanksgiving week. With family-friendly fun and unique finds, it’s a can’t-miss tradition!

We also hear from representatives of the Waukee Chapter of FBLA about their Craft Fair happening Saturday, where over 70 vendors will help jumpstart your holiday shopping. Finally, Jamie Thompson wraps it all up with What’s Up Waukee, your go-to guide for weekend activities around town.

Quick Links:

• Old Station Craft Meats on Facebook
• A Night Under the Lights Event Info
• Waukee FBLA Craft Fair Details

• Dance for Littles @ Playgrounds Cafe
   Friday, November 22, 10:00 AM
  Perfect for ages 1-5, join this fun dance session designed for little ones.
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• 23rd Annual Holiday Promenade @ East Village
   Friday, November 22, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  Festive celebration with live entertainment, shopping, family-friendly fun, and the opening of Brenton Skating Plaza. Runs through December 20th.
  Learn more
• Miracle on 5th Dr @ Raygun
   Friday, November 22, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  Enjoy shopping, live entertainment, and a hot chocolate bar. This week: Des Moines Ballet performing every half hour, with a chance to meet the dancers.
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• Free Girls Lacrosse Clinic @ Sportsplex West
   Saturday, November 23, 5:30 PM
  For girls 3rd grade and up in Waukee, Johnston, DCG & Adel communities. A 2-hour free clinic led by Waukee Lacrosse Club’s Head Coach.
  Learn more
• Disney Skate @ Skateland
   Sunday, November 24, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  Meet Elsa, Anna, Woody, Jessie, and Buzz and skate to Disney tunes.
  Learn more

• Pink Friday - Shop Local
   Friday, November 22
  Support local businesses with this nationwide pre-Black Friday shopping event.
  Learn more
• Elementary Craft Lab @ Waukee Public Library
   Friday, November 22, 4:00 PM
  Create foam embroidery crafts. For grades K-5.
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• Unveiling of Wicked @ The Palms Theater
   Friday, November 22, 5:00 PM
  Premier event at 5:30 PM and 7:15 PM.
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• S.P.A. Worship Night @ Lutheran Church of Hope Waukee
   Friday, November 22, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  Women are invited for worship, prayer, and appetizers. Bring a friend.
  Learn more
• Holiday Craft Fair @ Waukee Learning and Innovation Center
   Saturday, November 23, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  Over 60 vendors. Proceeds support the Waukee Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America. Suggested $3 donation.
  Learn more
• Opening Day @ Slap Soda! Iowa’s Today Shop
   Saturday, November 23, 10:30 AM
  Gourmet fountain drinks, vendor shopping, 50% off drinks, and prize drawings. Located in front of Goodwill on Laurel.
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• Tree Lighting @ Lutheran Church of Hope WDM
   Saturday, November 23, 5:00 PM
  Kick off the holidays with a festive tree lighting ceremony.
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• ZZ Top Live
   Thursday, November 21, 7:30 PM
  Enjoy a night of classic rock.
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• Live Music @ Kenny’s Garage
   Friday, November 22, 8:00 PM - Decoy
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• Live Music & Karaoke @ Mickey’s Waukee
   Saturday, November 23, 8:30 PM - The People’s Band
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• Pickleball 101 @ SmashPark
   Saturday, November 23, 9:00 AM
  Learn the basics of pickleball in this introductory clinic.
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• Jingle in the Junction
   Thursday, November 21, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  Shop, enjoy free entertainment, and soak in the holiday spirit. Runs through December 19th.
  Learn more
• Miracle on Jordan Creek
   Ongoing through December 31st
  Festive cocktails, tasty treats, and holiday cheer.
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• Valley View Community Center
  Indoor play for ages 3-8. FREE.
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• Playgrounds Cafe
  A fun place for kids to play while parents relax.
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• A Night Under the Lights @ Waukee Community Center & Centennial Park
   Wednesday, November 20, 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  Vendor Village (1:00-3:00 PM), activities at Centennial Park (4:00 PM), characters, Santa, horse & carriage rides, mini train rides, DJ, and photo ops. Light Parade (6:00 PM).
  Learn more