Does it cost to get in?

There is no cost to Santa’s Village. No tickets are required. It is open to the general public.

What are the hours?

Santa Village is open from 6pm to 9pm on Thursdays and Sundays, and from 6pm to 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Santa Village, supported by Basepoint Wealth, is CLOSED on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Santa Village will be open for special hours from 6pm to 9pm on Monday, December 23rd and Tuesday, December 24th.

What is there to do in Santa Village?

The indoor holiday experience is complete with fun for all ages, including photos with Santa at Santa’s Workshop, Craft & Coloring Station, Letters to Santa Station, Selfie Stations, Holiday Market, holiday-themed concessions, and inflatables. 

Is there a drive-thru light show this year?

There will be no drive-thru light show in 2024. Hawkeye Downs encourages you to check out Holiday Light Finder to add a little holiday light show experience to your night after visiting Santa Village.

Is there food and beverage available?

Yes, concessions will be open during the event. This includes hot cocoa, water, soda, beer, popcorn, chips, candy, and cookies, which are available for purchase. Special events may include additional food and beverage items for sale.

How much are the photos with Santa?

A visit and photos with Santa are just $5. You should bring a camera or cell phone to capture the moment. There will be no professional on-site. 

What sort of crafts are there?

There will be coloring sheets, sticker crafts, ornaments, and other crafts for kids of all ages. Free activity books, courtesy of Toys for Tots, are available while supplies last.

How do you mail the letters to Santa?

After you finish writing your letter to Santa, you are welcome to put it in an envelope addressed to “Santa Claus, North Pole” and drop it in our mailbox in the Expo Hall.

Do the inflatables and carousel rides cost money? 

Wristbands are $10 for unlimited play each night. Individual tickets are also available for $1 each. Each ride/inflatable costs one (1) ticket. 

What is for sale in the Holiday Market? How can I purchase items? 

Our holiday market will include fun holiday gifts and apparel for yourself and others on your holiday gift list. Cash and cards will be accepted. Custom ordering at the holiday market is available.

How does my company/organization/family volunteer?

If you are interested in volunteering, please get in touch with Hawkeye Downs Executive Director Jen Lawrence at (319) 365-8656 during business hours for more information. Volunteers will welcome guests at the entrance or assist with the craft/coloring station and selfie stations.

I want my company/organization to be a sponsor. Who do I contact? 

If you are interested in sponsoring a part of the event or donating to Hawkeye Downs, please get in touch with Hawkeye Downs Executive Director Jen Lawrence at (319) 365-8656.

I have another question about Santa Village. Who do I contact?

For questions about Santa Village, please email Hawkeye Downs at hdofficemanager@hawkeyedowns.org or call (319) 365-8656.