Season of Lights Home Tour
Join us for the first Season of Lights Home Tour in River Bend, one of Des Moines, Iowa’s most historic and diverse neighborhoods. For close to thirty years, River Bend has opened its historic homes for a self-guided tour each September — and this year, for the first time, we’re bringing it to December, with the neighborhood decorated for the holidays. The tour runs Saturday, December 5th, and Sunday, December 6th, 2026.
River Bend is full of history, with many homes dating back to the 1870s and a lively mix of families and architectural styles. The Home Tour is the River Bend Neighborhood Association’s biggest fundraiser of the year, supporting community projects and events like our annual Blocktober Party and Trunk or Treat.
Spend a weekend afternoon stepping inside some of the district’s most striking homes and businesses, now trimmed and decorated for the season. You’ll see restorations in progress, the work of the architects who shaped the neighborhood, and the kind of holiday details that make each home feel warm and welcoming. Whether you’re a longtime visitor or a first-time guest, it’s a great way to start the holidays in Des Moines.
The tour is self-guided, so you can visit the homes in any order and at your own pace, on foot or by car. It runs from 10 AM to 4 PM both days, rain, snow, or shine. Pick up your tour booklet at the ticket booth (location to be announced) when you arrive. A courtesy shuttle will run during the tour, though space is limited and may not accommodate everyone at all times. We look forward to sharing our neighborhood with you this holiday season!
Tour details:
- Dates: Saturday, December 5th and Sunday, December 6th
- Time: 10 AM – 4 PM on both days
- Self-guided, rain, snow, or shine
Tickets and tour booklets:
- $20* on the day of the event (available online or at our neighborhood ticket booth)
- $15* in advance (deadline for advance purchase: November 30)
- *An automatic payment processing fee is added to all online ticket purchases
- Route maps and tour booklets can be picked up during tour hours at the ticket booth (location to be announced). Early pickup is not available
Getting around and accessibility:
- Visit the homes in any order, at your own pace — on foot or by car
- Park anywhere in the neighborhood, or along the street near each home
- A limited-capacity courtesy shuttle service will be available during the tour
- Many homes are historic and may have stairs or other features that limit accessibility. Contact the River Bend Neighborhood Association for specific questions or concerns
Etiquette and guidelines:
- Host homes are private residences; respectful conduct is required at all times
- Ask permission before taking photos inside the homes
- Wear provided booties or remove shoes when entering homes
- Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times
Amenities and experience:
- Complimentary water will be available along the tour route (limited supplies)
- Some homes will be in varying states of restoration, showcasing progress year after year
- Take your time, ask questions, and visit local businesses for a complete River Bend experience
Enjoy the tour, and discover River Bend at its most festive!