Prelude to Christmas

a season of christmas celebrations

Prelude To Christmas

The Amana Colonies Prelude to Christmas is a cherished annual holiday celebration, marking the start of the Christmas season with festive charm and community spirit. Visitors can explore shops filled with handcrafted goods, enjoy special promotions, tastings, and demonstrations, and participate in unique activities like the annual cookie walk and authentic German Christmas traditions. Highlights include the Tannenbaum Forest, visits with Santa Claus, and the traditional Christmas tree lighting. This celebration offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting memories in the historic Amana Colonies.

Link to Prelude to Christmas Brochure

Tannenbaum Forest

Open Friday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays from November 29th to December 22nd.

The Tannenbaum Forest is a cherished holiday tradition in the Amana Colonies, where visitors can stroll through a cozy, rustic building filled with beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Each tree, uniquely adorned by local businesses, organizations, and individuals, creates a festive wonderland of twinkling lights, sparkling ornaments, and the scent of pine. Beyond its visual charm, the forest celebrates community and the spirit of giving, hosting special events like live music, crafts, seasonal treats, and visits from Santa. Donations from the Tannenbaum Forest support local charities, making each visit a gift to the community.

Location: 4707 220th Trail, Amana, IA 52203

Please Note: The barn is not heated, so please dress warmly!

Amana Pickle Hunt!

While visiting the Amana Colonies during the magical Tannenbaum Forest, don’t miss out on the Amana Pickle Hunt—a festive adventure inspired by the German tradition of the Christmas Pickle Ornament. According to legend, an old German custom involves hiding a pickle ornament on the Christmas tree late on the evening of December 24th. The first child to find the pickle on Christmas morning is rewarded with an extra gift.

We’ve put a fun twist on this cherished tradition in the Amana Colonies! Instead of searching on a tree, you’ll be hunting for pickle ornaments hidden in shops throughout the Colonies.

Pick up your playing card at the Visitor Center and start your pickle hunt! Visit the participating stores, find the hidden pickles, and get your card signed off at each location. Once you’ve completed the card, return it to the Visitor Center to be entered into a prize drawing!

If you have any questions about the Amana Colonies, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Visitors Center:

Amana Visitors Center

622 46th Ave., Amana IA, 52203

319.622.7622