The 2024 holiday season kicked off in Pella Monday night with the annual Tour of Stores and lighting ceremony. 

Storefronts remained open after hours as holiday decorations lit up the Central Business District for the first time ahead of Christmas. A special ceremony was held featuring performances from Pella Christian Spanish Immersion Carolers, Pella Community Schools Elementary Choir, and a proclamation from Mayor Don DeWaard. The ceremony concluded with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus and the lighting of the Christmas tree on the Tulip Toren.

Marion County Bank sold discounted Pella Bucks and carriage rides were given throughout the evening. The KNIA/KRLS Lil’ Big Red Radio was also at the event providing updates and playing Christmas music