Christmas at Terrace Hill

Governor Kim Reynolds invites Iowans to join the first family for Christmas at Terrace Hill on Sunday, December 13, 2026 from 1:30-4:30 pm. Terrace Hill, the Iowa Governor’s Residence and National Historic Landmark, will be the charming location for a whole host of holiday fun.

Guests are encouraged to explore the historic property and enjoy several activities, including photos with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their reindeer, live music with carolers and piano playing, take-home craft bags, and a letter-writing station to send correspondence to deployed Iowa National Guard service members. Guests will also receive complimentary Christmas cookies prepared by the Terrace Hill Chef, and complimentary hot cocoa and coffee. Kettle corn and nuts will be offered for sale.

We will once again be collecting donations for our deployed service members. We appreciate any donations you can bring. You can find a list of accepted donation items on our Eventbrite page. The event will include a special recognition ceremony for the Iowa National Guard.

The event will also include a special reading of No Company for Christmas, a story which centers around Terrace Hill and was written by local children’s author Susan Maupin Schmid, with illustrations created by local artist Tara Gartin. The published children’s book of No Company for Christmas can be purchased at the event in the gift shop, located in the Carriage House.

Tickets are $30 for a family four pack, $5 per additional child, and $10 per individual adult, + processing fees, and tickets must be purchased in advance. This year there will be two timeslots for entry at 1:30 pm and 3:00 pm. You will select your preferred entry time at the time of your ticket purchase. Each timed entry will have an opportunity to participate in all above activities. Purchase tickets online at https://terracehillchristmas26.eventbrite.com or call our office at 515-281-7205.