Good morning, Ankeny.

Jolly Holiday Lights returned for another season last night at the Iowa State Fairgrounds with more than 3 million lights illuminating unique holiday displays—tickets cost $25 per vehicle or $65 for a season pass.

Organizers donate $1 per ticket and 20% of sponsorship revenue to Make-A-Wish Iowa—supporting a local charity.

Recent fires in the metro led Iowa fire officials to issue holiday safety tips; firefighter Ahman Douglass advised that deep-frying turkeys should be done outdoors and warned against leaving cooking unattended or letting Christmas trees dry out (he also reminded residents to check their smoke alarms).

Ankeny Turkey Trot

8:45 AM – 12:00 PM — DMACC Ankeny Campus — Registration required — Run the inaugural Ankeny Turkey Trot and enjoy delicious donuts at the finish line.

Christmas in Olde Town Celebration

2-7 p.m. — Olde Town Altoona — Free entry — Experience a festive transformation into a winter wonderland filled with community spirit for the holiday season.

Ankeny Christmas Light Trolley Tour

Evening Tour — 1.5-Hour Heated Trolley Ride — Whiskey River Ankeny — Ticketed event — Experience the magic of Christmas lights with festive drinks and post-tour specials.

Touch of Grey - Live Music at Firetrucker Brewery

6-9 p.m. — Firetrucker Brewery — No cover charge — Enjoy a nostalgic night with Touch of Grey performing soulful melodies from the ’60s and ’70s.

Candle Making Workshop & Social

6-8 p.m. — Slick Designs, Ankeny, IA — $40 — Create a unique candle scent while enjoying a fun evening of creativity and great company.