Davenport Parks and Rec brings holiday cheer to local parks

Three community favorites, Fejervary Holiday Lights, Vander Veer Conservatory’s

Poinsettia and Lights (with special extended hours), and Letters to the North Pole are back and kick off Saturday, Nov. 30. 

New for 2024 is a Buddy the Elf self-guided scavenger hunt and The River’s Edge will host a special public skate where participants can “Skate with Santa” on Saturday, Dec. 21.

“The winter season is such a magical time in Davenport with all of the events and displays throughout the city,” said Amanda Randerson, events supervisor with

Davenport Parks and Recreation. “We have our annual events, but wanted to offer some extras this year and we look forward to seeing the community come out for them.”

For specific event details including dates, times and fees, visit here. The schedule includes:

Fejervary Holiday Lights, Mondays to Sundays, Nov. 30 – Jan. 5, at the Fejervary Learning Center, 1800 W. 12th St. Shows are from 5-9:30 p.m.

  • Vander Veer Botanical Park Poinsettia and Lights, Tuesday through Sunday, Nov. 30 – Jan. 12, at Vander Veer Botanical Park, 215 W. Central Park Ave. Closed on Mondays and for the holidays on Wednesdays and Thursdays, Dec. 25- Dec. 26 and Jan. 1-2.
  • Letters to the North Pole can be dropped off every day from Saturday, Nov. 30 to Sunday, Dec. 15 at these locations: The River’s Edge, 700 W. River Drive, Fejervary Learning Center and Vander Veer Conservatory.
  • Buddy the Elf Scavenger Hunt will be from Monday, Dec. 2 to Friday, Dec. 27.

Keep an eye out for Buddy’s mischievous hiding spots in Davenport parks and facilities! When you find him, take your photograph and post it using #DavenportBuddyTheElf to be entered into a raffle. Location changes each week.

Saturday, Dec. 21  2-4 p.m. Skate with Santa The River’s Edge is hosting a special holiday public skate. The River’s Edge  700 W River Drive Admission: $6 (plus tax) and Skate Rental: $3.50

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