Holiday celebrations in the Quad Cities

As the holiday season approaches, the Quad Cities is gearing up for a cozy winter filled with lights, music and festive cheer. Whether you’re looking for twinkling displays, joyful performances or quiet moments of reflection, here are some of the season’s must-see events.

QC Botanical Center Winter Lights | Rock Island, Ill.

Select evenings, Nov. 21–Dec. 31

Features more than 315,000 glowing lights across five acres of garden grounds at the Quad City Botanical Center. Winter Lights is powered by the MidAmerican Energy Foundation and is perfect for a stroll through a sparkling winter wonderland.

Lighting on the Commons | Moline, Ill. 

Nov. 22 from 3:30–6 p.m. (fireworks at 6 p.m.)

Features holiday attractions such as Santa Claus, horse-drawn wagon rides, live music and the popular lighting ceremony! It’s an event for all ages and a perfect way to get your spirits soaring for the upcoming festivities in December. 

Festival of Trees | Davenport, Iowa

Nov. 22–30

Features more than 150 designer tree displays, festive attractions, special events and the largest helium balloon parade in the Midwest (Nov. 22). Festival of Trees is the largest annual fundraiser for Quad City Arts, supporting year-round arts access in the region.

Deck the Downtowns | Rock Island, Ill.

Nov. 19, 2025–Jan. 1, 2026

Features festive art displays and train hunts to holiday markets and a community tree lighting. There's magic around every corner downtown.

Christmas in The Village | Davenport, Iowa

Dec. 5–6

Features children's activities, trolley rides, ice sculpting, live window scenes, holiday characters, carolers, hot chocolate, Santa at the Village Firehouse and more!

The Nutcracker presented by Ballet Quad Cities | Davenport, Iowa

Dec. 13–14

Ballet Quad Cities’ “The Nutcracker” has been a hallmark of the holiday season in the Quad Cities for generations. Features a full-stage production: a cast of 60, falling snow, colorful sets and a sparkling sugar plum fairy. 

From sparkling lights to festive performances, the Quad Cities offers plenty of ways to celebrate the season and embrace the warmth and magic of winter.

Check out our “Augustana Holiday Traditions” blog for Augie events!