Visit our full events calendar
All events are free unless noted
Pastel Seasons: Recent Pastels Portraying the Midwest by Tom Christopher
Celebrate the vibrant pastel paintings of Tom Christopher. This exhibit highlights Christopher’s beautiful approach to working with pastels of various landscapes depicting different seasons shown throughout the Midwest. The Pastel Seasons exhibit will be on display until December 20th.
Arts Center is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Exhibit runs through December 20, 2024.
Visit the Clear Lake Art Center’s website
Clear Lake Arts Center, 17 S 4th St.
Cards & Creativity
Cards & Creativity meets every Thursday that the library is open at 1:00 p.m. This is a weekly opportunity to meet up with others to play games or engage in your creative outlet of choice. You can work on fiber art, writing, music, drawing, or anything else that inspires you! We’ll provide coloring supplies and cards for you to use!
Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Visit the Library’s website
Clear Lake Public Library, 200 N. 4th St.
Marketing Essentials: Entrepreneurship Essentials III
Unleash the power of marketing with key essentials for maximum impact Are you ready to embark on a journey toward entrepreneurial excellence? The NIACC Pappajohn Center and SBDC proudly present a transformative 3-part series designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs, business beginners, and those seeking to revitalize their entrepreneurial endeavors. Entrepreneurship Essentials is your guide to start mastering the fundamental aspects of business creation, financial management, and effective marketing strategies. In the third installment of our series, Marketing Essentials delves into the dynamic world of marketing and branding, focusing on the essential task of creating a strategic approach. Elevate your brand and connect with your audience through a strategic blend of digital and traditional marketing methods and develop a well-crafted marketing strategy. Propel your business forward by harnessing the power of modern digital tools such as websites, domains, email campaigns, and social media marketing, and discover the tactics necessary to build a tribe of passionate customers, maintain a strong online presence, and establish a memorable brand. Key Topics Covered: + Constructing a Comprehensive Marketing Strategy for Long-Term Success + Building a Consistent and Authentic Brand Identity within Your Marketing Strategy + Crafting an Effective Online Presence: Websites, Social Media & Google + Harnessing the Potential of Text and Email Marketing + Mobilizing Referrals and Conventional Marketing Approaches This free online seminar is Part III of the NIACC Pappajohn Center & SBDC Entrepreneurship Essentials series. About the NIACC Pappajohn Center The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center and North Iowa SBDC operates as a fully integrated business assistance center supporting the development of entrepreneurs and the growth, innovation and successful transition planning for existing businesses within the NIACC region. The Pappajohn Center is the primary source for entrepreneurial training in North Iowa, from early entrepreneurship education (starting in fifth grade) to sophisticated deal-structuring for both entrepreneurs and established businesses. We are committed to helping every entrepreneur, no matter their level of expertise, to start and grow something great. Visit www.pappajohncenter.com to learn more.
Thursday, December 5, 2024, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Click here to register
Online via Zoom
One Vision’s Lights on 5K
Get ready to light up the night at One Vision’s 12th Annual Lights On 5K Run/Walk on Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Clear Lake! Whether you’re a runner or walker, come dressed in your festive best, add some glow, and join us in supporting One Vision’s mission to stand with and support people with disabilities in pursuing their best life. In addition to the race, bring the whole family to enjoy Santa’s Workshop and other fun kids’ activities. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season together!
Every registration, donation, and dollar raised will go directly toward providing holiday gifts for individuals served by One Vision who otherwise may not receive any.
Let’s make the season brighter together!
Thursday, December 5, 2024, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Click here to register
One Vision Campus, 600 Glen Oaks Dr.
Santa’s Workshop: FREE
Kids Candy Cane Fun Run: $15 per runner/walker
Lights On 5K: $33 per runner/walker
NOW PLAYING: Moana 2 (PG)
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic animated musical “Moana 2” reunites Moana (voice of Auli‘i Cravalho) and Maui (voice of Dwayne Johnson) three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.
Monday-Friday at 7:00 PM, Saturday & Sunday 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM, & 7:00 PM
Purchase tickets online
Lake Theatre, 4 N 4th St.
$5 adults, $4 children 12 & under
BINGO at Elly’s
Join us for Bingo at Elly’s! This week we will be giving out local gift cards. Must be 21+
Thursday, December 5, 2024, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Visit Elly’s Lounge on Facebook
Elly’s Lounge, 12 South Shore Dr.
Trivia Thursday
Think you know it all? Gather your friends and put your knowledge to the test every Thursday at Lake Time Brewery for a night of fun, friendly competition, and craft beer! The trivia topics change weekly, so make sure to check our Facebook page for updates. Whether you’re a history buff, pop culture fanatic, or just love a good challenge, there’s something for everyone. Great prizes, great brews, and great times await—see you there!
Thursday, December 5, 2024, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Visit Lake Time Brewery on Facebook
Lake Time Brewery, 801 Main Ave.
Karaoke at TAP’d
Karaoke kicks off a run of 5 shows in 4 days at TAP’d! Jared & his crew are constantly updating the song book & coming up with new on stage effects to make it so much fun!
Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 8:00 PM
Visit TAP’d on Facebook
TAP’d, 313 Main Ave.
Christmas Tree Lighting
Kick off the holiday season at Clear Lake’s 2nd Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 6th, at 5:30 PM at the City Park Bandshell. This event leads into the Christmas by the Lake festival happening downtown the next day, December 7th.
Support the Clear Lake Food Bank
This year, we’re collecting donations for the Clear Lake Food Bank. Bring your items to the bandshell before the lighting or drop them off at the Chamber office during the week of December 2nd.
Requested items include: non-perishable food (ready-to-eat cereal, canned meats, soups, and fruit), soap & body wash, shampoo, toothpaste, laundry soap, facial tissue & toilet paper, feminine hygiene products. Your donations will help local families this holiday season.
The event will feature a performance by the Wavelength choir, remarks from Mayor Nelson Crabb & Stacy Doughan, Chamber President & CEO, and a visit from Santa Claus! Can’t make it in person? The ceremony will be streamed live on Clear Lake, Iowa’s Facebook page.
Friday, December 6, 2024, 5:30 PM
Watch the livestream on Facebook
City Park Bandshell
Live Music at TAP’d
Your Cali Boys are back for Christmas by the Lake Weekend! The Schoon Brothers, originally from Manson, Iowa, have been to California and back on their music journey! They’ll be playing us all the country and rock from the 90s and 2000s! Some artists they’ll cover during this 5 hour show are Third Eye Blind, Post Malone and Luke Combs!
Friday, December 6, 2024, 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Visit TAP’d on Facebook
TAP’d, 313 Main Ave.
Christmas by the Lake
Celebrate the season at Clear Lake’s Christmas by the Lake—an award-winning holiday festival filled with activities for all ages! Enjoy festive photo ops, crafts, carriage rides, live music, and a dazzling lighted parade to kick off the holidays in style.
Holiday Photo Opportunity (All Day), Clear Lake City Park Bandshell
Snag a photo in front of a perfect Christmas backdrop. Sponsored by The Globe Gazette.
Breakfast with Santa (7:30–10 AM), St. Patrick’s Catholic Church (1101 9th Ave S)
Pancakes, sausage, coffee, and photos with Santa! $5 per person, pay at the door.
Holiday Bake Sale & Crafts (8:30 AM–12:30 PM), United Methodist Church (508 2nd Ave N)
Treats, crafts, books, and holiday decorations for all your gifting needs.
Holiday Bazaar & Vendor Market (9 AM–3 PM), Clear Lake Middle School (1601 3rd Ave N)
Browse vendors, enjoy snacks, and support the high school band trip.
Jingle and Arts Jubilee: Arts Center Holiday Open House (9 AM–5 PM), Clear Lake Arts Center (17 S 4th St)
Handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and meet-the-artist opportunities.
C.A.R.E.S. Christmas by the Lake BINGO (10 AM–3 PM), VFW (219 Main Ave)
Festive BINGO to support safe prom night for students.
Pizza & Photos with the Grinch & Cindy Lou Who (10 AM–3 PM), Lakeview Room (10 N Lakeview Drive)
Meet the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who, with proceeds benefiting the Clear Lake Dance Team.
Prince & Princess Crowning (10:15 AM), Clear Lake Bank & Trust (322 Main Avenue)
Watch as this year’s Christmas Prince and Princess are crowned.
Story Time for Ages 3–6 (10:30 AM & 11:30 AM), Clear Lake Public Library (200 N 4th St)
Festive stories, songs, and crafts.
Family Matinee: Elf (11 AM), Lake Theatre (4 N 4th St)
Donate to the food bank for free admission. Sponsored by Wilcox Furniture.
Live Cello & Piano (11:30 AM–2:30 PM), Holistic Harmony (313 N 8th St)
Beautiful music with tea lattes available.
Christmas Karaoke & S’mores (1–4 PM), Zion Dock Overhang (500 Main Avenue)
Sing holiday tunes and enjoy s’mores. Sponsored by Mediacom.
FSB Warming House (1–4 PM), Farmers State Bank (210 1st Ave N)
Popcorn and warm drinks await.
Horse-Drawn Carriage & Wagon Rides (1–4 PM), Boarding at Wilcox Furniture (418 Main Ave) & Ge-Jo’s (12 N 3rd St)
A delightful ride around downtown. Sponsored by Farmers State Bank and Dean Snyder Construction.
Petting Zoo & Pony Rides (1–4 PM), Clear Lake City Park
Perfect for kids to meet furry friends. Sponsored by Fareway and NTI, Ltd.
Visit with Santa (1–4 PM & 6–7 PM), Santa’s House in Clear Lake City Park
Bring your wishlist and take a photo with Santa.
Professor Von Air Balloon Artist (1–4 PM), Zion on Main (500 Main Avenue)
Fun balloon creations for the kids. Sponsored by Kingland.
Zion on Main Activities (1–4 PM), Zion on Main (500 Main Avenue)
Inflatables, live entertainment, games, and hot cocoa.
Ornament Workshop (1–4 PM), Clear Lake Public Library (200 N 4th St)
Craft festive ornaments while sipping hot chocolate.
Lighted Parade & Spectacular Fireworks Finale (5:07 PM), Clear Lake Main Avenue & Seawall
A dazzling parade followed by a breathtaking fireworks display.
Luminare Christmas: Mistletoe Madness Tour (Doors open at 7 PM), Surf Ballroom (460 North Shore Dr)
An unforgettable symphonic rock holiday concert. Get Tickets Here.
Saturday, December 7, 2024
Follow Clear Lake on Facebook
Downtown Clear Lake
Scribble Saturdays
Hey, future Picassos and mini Monets! Get ready for a morning full of artistic adventures as we dive into the FUN-damentals of art!
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Visit the Clear Lake Art Center’s website
Clear Lake Arts Center, 17 S 4th St.
Christmas by the Lake at Elly’s
Christmas By The Lake @ Elly’s! Hot Chocolate with 10 different liquor options and toppings.
Saturday, December 7, 2024, Open at 10:00 AM
Visit Elly’s Lounge on Facebook
Elly’s Lounge, 12 South Shore Dr.
173° Craft Distillery Christmas Party
Warm Up This Saturday During Christmas by the Lake! Stop by 173° Craft Distillery and enjoy some holiday cheer!
We’ll be serving up: chili and cinnamon rolls (the perfect winter combo!) and hot chocolate for the kids to keep them cozy and happy.
Make us your spot to warm up and soak in the festive vibes. We can’t wait to celebrate the season with you!
Saturday, December 7, 2024, Open at 12:00 PM
Visit 173° Craft Distillery on Facebook
173° Craft Distillery, 306 1st Ave. N
Neva Alden at TAP’d
Up and coming country star Neva Alden makes her way back to TAP’d for her first solo show! Neva is the perfect addition to Christmas by the Lake in Clear Lake! She will be playing her country hits, country covers and some Christmas music for us before the parade!
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Visit TAP’d on Facebook
TAP’d, 313 Main Ave.
Luminare Christmas
“Unleash your festive side and experience the exhilarating energy of a high-octane holiday rock concert with Luminare Christmas, the ultimate celebration!”
Get ready for an unforgettable holiday experience, led by former Mannheim Steamroller keyboardist and long time musical director for Dennis DeYoung of Styx. Luminare Christmas brings a fusion of reimagined holiday classics, high energy symphonic rock and cinematic magic. Their sound can be described as a blend of Mannheim Steamroller’s holiday classic vibes, the high-energy rock of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and the cinematic atmosphere of Hans Zimmer. The result is a musical fusion that’s sure to leave you breathless and wanting more. With a phenomenal lighting show and a heartwarming story woven throughout the performance, Luminare Christmas creates a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages. You’ll feel the holiday spirit and be swept away by the passionate and sonically lush vocal and instrumental musical performances. So get ready to rock the holidays with Luminare Christmas and experience a concert that you’ll never forget!
Saturday, December 7, 2024 doors open at 7:00 PM
Click here for tickets
Surf Ballroom, 460 North Shore Dr.
$20 advance / $25 at the door
Live Music at the VFW
Join us after Christmas by the Lake for the Stone Groove Band!
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Follow the VFW’s new Facebook page
VFW, 219 Main Ave.
The Blenders
Nothing says Christmas at NIACC like an evening with our dear friends, The Blenders! Originally from Fargo, North Dakota, The Blenders relocated to Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1994 and have called it their home ever since. They have been touring the U.S. for 31 years with their unique style of vocal, harmony-based music. They have appeared on a variety of national and regional television shows including The Arsenio Hall Show (FOX), the Today Show, Crook & Chase (TNN), and WGN-TV. Delighting our audience with their signature vocal sound, The Blenders are sure to make your evening merry.
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Click here for tickets
North Iowa Auditorium, 500 College Dr., Mason City
Tickets start at $20
Christian Connett at TAP’d
Christian Connett is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer renowned for his ability to craft transcendent musical experiences. With a diverse background and a passion for pushing the boundaries of musical expression, Christian presents genre-bending music with a mix of Rock, New Age, World, Folk, Country, and Electronica creating unique compositions and passionate performances
Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 8:00 PM
Visit TAP’d on Facebook
TAP’d, 313 Main Ave.
Polar Bear Plunge
Join us for the most exhilarating event of the year – the Clear Lake Polar Bear Plunge 2024! Get ready to dive into the icy waters of City Beach and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush. This in-person event is not for the faint-hearted! Whether you’re a seasoned polar bear plunger or a first-timer, this is your chance to conquer the cold and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Registration is a donation to the local Toys for Tots + Clear Lake Kids & Families In Need Fund. Registration cost is $60 which includes a Polar Bear Plunge Sweatshirt.
Day of Schedule
10:30 AM: Check-in/Registration and pre-party for Plungers at the VFW in Clear Lake. All participants will receive a drink token at the VFW.
12:00 PM: Check-in/Registration moves to the Yacht Club
12:30 PM: Plungers take the plunge!
1:00 PM: Warming Party at Tap’d (Tap’d will have a band)
Warming tents will be onsite to change afterwards. When you check-in, you can provide your team name in order to be announced to plunge together. Fun costumes or outfits encouraged but not required.
Toe Dippers Club
Want the sweet shirt but don’t want to fully commit to jumping in the lake? Join our Toe Dippers Club. You still get the swag, still get to attend the pre-party/post-party, still get the cold sensation with a tip of your foot, and our charities still get your support, its win-win-win.
Tips for First Timers: Pack a towel and water shoes, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring easy to get into warm clothes (and shoes!) for after the Plunge, for your own safety, never dive into the water, bring a plastic bag for wet clothes, and somewhere to store your dry clothes. Have fun!
Sunday, December 8, 2024, 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Visit the Clear Lake Jaycees on Facebook
Clear Lake City Beach
Registration is a $60 donation
Free Family Matinee: The Grinch (PG)
Make a non-perishable food item or cash donation to the the food bank for free admission to this matinee. Sponsored by CLB&T Insurance for Christmas by the Lake.
Sunday, December 8, 2024, 11:00 AM
Lake Theatre, 4 N 4th St.
Admission is free with a food or cash donation to the food bank.
Visit with Santa
Visit with Santa in City Park every Saturday & Sunday from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM until Christmas!
Sunday, December 8, 2024, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Tips for your visit with Santa
Clear Lake City Park
Polar Bear Plunge Afterparty featuring Jake McVey
TAP’d is once again hosting the Official Polar Bear Plunge Afterparty! JAKE MCVEY makes his TAP’d debut to warm you up on a Sunday afternoon! JAKE has shared the stage with guys like Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, and Thomas Rhett to name a few!
Sunday, December 8, 2024, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Visit TAP’D on Facebook
TAP’d, 313 Main Avenue
Writing Group
Bring a pencil and some paper (or grab your laptop) and join a community of writers. Use the time to work on a project or join in on the prompts and games provided. The group meets from 6:00 – 7:00 pm on Monday nights whenever the library is open.
Monday, December 9, 2024 from 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Visit the Library’s website
Clear Lake Public Library, 200 N. 4th St.
BINGO Night at the VFW
Besides the good fun, the veterans and auxiliary volunteers will donate all proceeds from the games to community charities and veteran causes. Everyone wins at VFW BINGO! BINGO Night at the VFW the 2nd & 4th Mondays of the month from 6:30pm-8:30pm. Must be over 21 to play.
Monday, December 9, 2024, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Follow the VFW’s new Facebook page
VFW, 219 Main Ave.
Bean Bag Night at the VFW
VFW weekly bean bag night is every Wednesday. Sign up at 6:30pm, play begins at 7pm. $1 entry per person, prize money awarded each week. Bring a snack to share if you like!
Wednesday Nights, register at 6:30 PM, play begins at 7:00 PM
Follow the VFW’s new Facebook page
VFW, 219 Main Ave.