This week’s episode of the Waukee Talkee Podcast is packed with holiday cheer and exciting updates! Jamie Thompson from What’s Up Waukee returns with the latest opportunities to meet Santa and fun activities to keep the kids entertained during winter break. Whether you’re finishing last-minute holiday plans or seeking ideas to keep the family busy, Jamie’s tips have you covered.

Aly Davis from WELL Waukee also joins the conversation to discuss Functional Nutrition. She encourages listeners to approach holiday eating with grace while offering practical tips for staying balanced. As the new year approaches, Aly introduces a Detox and Cleanse program designed to help you reset and recharge after the holiday season.

In a special announcement, the Waukee Talkee Podcast celebrates its growth—not just in listenership but also in staff! A recent merger with Nicky Wallace promises to elevate the podcast’s mission to "connect community one voice at a time" by combining skills, processes, and Waukee’s vibrant resources.

Tune in for holiday inspiration, wellness advice, and an exciting look at what’s ahead for the Waukee Talkee Podcast!

• Play Under the Lights @ Children’s Museum
   Friday, December 20, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  Learn about light festivals from around the world at this special holiday event.
  Learn more
• Breakfast with Santa @ Edencrest at Kettlestone
   Saturday, December 21, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  Residents & kids under 5 are FREE. Ages 5+ are $5 per person.
  Learn more
• Cookies with Santa & Mrs. Claus @ HyVee Mills Civic
   Saturday, December 21, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  Holiday fun for kids and families.
  Learn more
• Merry Christmas Skate @ Skateland Des Moines
   Wednesday, December 25, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  Music, skating, and holiday cheer to celebrate Christmas Day.
  Learn more

• Jingle in the Junction @ Valley Junction
   Thursday, December 19
  Shop, enjoy free entertainment, and soak in the holiday spirit.
  Learn more
• Holiday Promenade @ East Village
   Friday, December 20
  Enjoy festive shopping, lights, and entertainment in the heart of East Village.
  Learn more
• Winter Wonderland @ Center Grove Orchard
   All weekend, December 20-22
  Holiday fun with lights, treats, and family-friendly activities.
  Learn more
• Winter Solstice Hike @ Jester Park Nature Center
   Friday, December 20, 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
  Celebrate winter’s arrival on the shortest day of the year with a hike. All ages welcome.
  Learn more
• Winter Solstice Sunrise Yoga & Brunch @ Wilson’s Orchard
   Saturday, December 21, 7:15 AM
  Enjoy yoga and brunch to start your day. $30 per person.
  Learn more
• Winter Break Pop-Up Camps @ Waukee Community Center
   Saturday, December 21, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  Half-day of STEM fun with holiday-themed projects. Bring a lunch!
  Learn more
• Brunch with Santa @ Wilson’s Orchard
   Sunday, December 22, 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
  Enjoy brunch, treats, and a hot cocoa bar while meeting Santa.
  Learn more

• Live Music @ Kenny’s Garage
   Friday, December 20, 8:00 PM - Oreo Meatwagon
   Saturday, December 21, 8:00 PM - Royce Johns Duo
   Sunday, December 22, 3:00 PM - Bar Bingo
  Learn more
• Live Music @ Mickey’s Waukee
   Saturday, December 21, 8:30 PM - Blanket Fort’s
  Learn more
• Holiday Pop-Up Dinner @ Rookies, Clive
   Friday, December 20, 6:30 PM
  Winter Wonderland Dinner for Two: $49.95 includes dinner and dessert.
  Learn more
• Mannheim Steamroller Christmas @ Des Moines Civic Center
   Saturday, December 21, 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
  Celebrate the holidays with this iconic Christmas concert.
  Learn more
• Holiday Brunch Bingo @ Smash Park
   Sunday, December 22, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  Enjoy brunch, bingo, prizes, and a visit from Santa.
  Learn more

1. Holiday Hullabaloo
   Learn more
2. Dome for the Holidays @ Botanical Gardens
   Learn more
3. Santa & Dine in a Pop-Up @ Either/OR
    Saturday, December 21, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
   Learn more
4. Walk/Drive Through Lights @ Miracle on 86th Street & Dougy Doug’s
   Learn more - Miracle
   Learn more - Dougy Doug’s
5. Bonus Dine-In: Merrill’s Waukee

Enjoy this week’s festive fun with family activities, community celebrations, and holiday date ideas!