This week on the Waukee Talkee Podcast, we’re diving into a lineup of community-focused conversations that you won’t want to miss! Jamie Thompson kicks things off with a jam-packed “What’s Up Waukee,” offering the latest on local happenings and upcoming events. Aly Davis of Fit & Fierce 515 returns, joined by Kirstin Belken from The Kissed Peach Integrative Aesthetics & Wellness. Together, they discuss ways to prioritize health and wellness during the winter months, plus an exciting December 14th event at Aly’s studio aimed at keeping you vibrant through the season.

Danae Edwards stops by to spread the word about Winterfest, Waukee’s beloved holiday celebration. With festive activities for all ages, it’s the perfect way to ring in the season with community cheer. Wrapping up the episode, Wendy Marsh, President of the Waukee School Board, sheds light on hot-button topics like cell phone policies in schools, the strides being made in WILC’s automotive program, and the significance of the Legislative Forum happening December 7th.

Packed with insights, events, and opportunities to engage with the Waukee community, this episode delivers inspiration and connection—true to our motto: “Connecting Community One Voice at a Time.”

Family Events:

• Disney on Ice @ Wells Fargo Arena
   Thursday-Sunday, Multiple Shows
  Experience the magic of Disney on Ice with your favorite characters and songs.
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• Turkey Bowl @ Hope Waukee Campus
   Thursday, November 23, 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
  Join a family-friendly game of flag football on the south lawn. All are welcome!
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• Festival of Lights @ Winterset
   Friday, November 24, 5:00 PM
  Food, lighted window displays, horse-drawn carriage rides, live carolers, extended shopping hours, and Santa visits. Lighted parade begins at 7:15 PM.
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• Entirely Kids Day @ Des Moines Art Center
   Saturday, November 25, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  Celebrate storytelling through books, performances, art, and more. Free family-friendly event.
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• Play Date with Santa @ Playgrounds Cafe
   Saturday, November 25, Two Times: 2:30 PM & 5:00 PM
  Includes a personalized meet & greet with Santa, two hours of play, a kid's holiday hot chocolate, and a sweet treat.
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• Winter Wonder @ Center Grove Orchard
   Saturday & Sunday, November 25-26, 9:15 AM - 11:45 AM
  Carriage rides, hot chocolate, and a winter wonderland experience.
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• Going on a Bear Hunt @ Quail Cove Park, WDM
   Sunday, November 26, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
  Reenact this beloved story while hiking through nature’s obstacles.
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Community Events:

• 2nd Annual Waukee Turkey Trot @ Triumph Park
   Thanksgiving Morning
  5k, fun run, and kids' categories. Donutland donuts await at the finish line!
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• 41st Annual Festival of Trees & Lights @ Iowa Events Center
   Friday, November 24, 11:00 AM - Sunday, November 26, 5:00 PM
  Blank Children’s Hospital’s largest fundraiser featuring trees, performances, and kids’ activities. $5 admission.
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• Santa’s Rockin’ Lights @ Living History Farms
   Opens Friday, November 24
  Drive through one mile of spectacular light displays synchronized to music. Reserve your time.
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• Small Business Saturday
   Saturday, November 25
  Support local businesses in Uptown Ankeny, Valley Junction, and East Village.
• Running of the Reindeer Fun Run @ Valley Junction
   Saturday, November 25, 8:45 AM
  Three-block fun run in your best holiday costume. Family-friendly and free to enter. Stay for brunch and shopping!
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• Leftovers 9-Pin Doubles Tournament @ Warrior Lanes
   Saturday, November 25, 10:00 AM
  Adult doubles tournament. Reserve your spot.
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• Christmas on Chestnut @ Earlham
   Saturday, November 25, 4:00 PM
  Tree lighting event with carolers, hot cocoa, horse-drawn carriage rides, and more.
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Date Ideas:

• Music Bingo @ Mickey’s Waukee
   Wednesday, November 22, 7:00 PM
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• Live Music @ Kenny’s Garage
   Friday, November 24, 7:00 PM - BS
   Saturday, November 25, 8:00 PM - Driving Blind
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• Live Music @ Mickey’s Waukee
   Saturday, November 25, 8:30 PM - The Cardinal Sound
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• Val-A-Palooza @ Val Air Ballroom

  Sunday, November 26, 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM

 Family-friendly event featuring three great local  bands.

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• Bar Bingo @ Kenny’s Garage
   Sunday, November 26, 3:00 PM
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