Leaves changing colors, bonfires, and football are just a few of fall’s great qualities. Sadly, in the Midwest fall quickly turns from enjoying the crisp outdoor weather to crawling under your warm blankets and refusing to leave the house. We’re all guilty of losing motivation when the weather turns frigid, but these ideas will keep you wanting cold weather year around. Well, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. But, it does make the cold weather a little more manageable! Grab your significant other, best friend, or family members and embrace the Midwest weather with these fun activities!
Lighting on the Commons (November 21st)
The official kick off of the holiday season! Enjoy some free hot chocolate and cookies while you mingle with Santa Clause and watch as downtown Moline turns all their Christmas lights on. This event also includes carolers, wagon rides, and fireworks. Perfect for the whole family!
Find more information here: http://www.iwirelesscenter.com/Upcoming-Events/Event-List/Lighting-on-the-Commons.aspx
Festival of Trees (November 19th – 29th)
My personal favorite event of the season. Festival of Trees lasts for ten days and includes the biggest helium balloon parade in the Midwest, entertainment, gingerbread houses, and of course, a variety of Christmas trees.
Find more information here: http://quadcityarts.com/festivaloftrees/
Quad City Mallards Game
What better way to enjoy the colder months than cheering on your local hockey team? Bonus: Friday night is college night. Discounted $10 tickets with college ID plus dollar drink specials and hot dogs. Score!
Find more information here: http://www.myqcmallards.net/home/
Ice Skating
Does winter even count if you never went ice skating? River’s Edge has a huge ice skating rink. Plus, even though it’s indoors you still get to bundle up in your favorite winter scarf and hat!
Find more information here: http://www.cityofdavenportiowa.com/department/division.php?structureid=199
Movie Night
There will be those nights when you just can’t get yourself to go out into the cold. Grab a stack of Christmas movies, some hot chocolate, and anything pumpkin flavored and enjoy a night in! Some great holiday movies to watch: Elf, The Santa Clause, A Christmas Story, and Christmas Vacation.