Monthly Hill O’ Beans Coffee Social
Tuesday, December 9, 9:00 am
Museum Lounge
Be sure to join us each month on the first Tuesday for a presentation on an interesting historical topic of our choice. You will learn something unexpected while enjoying conversation, coffee and treats.
During the holiday season, the staff has a merry activity planned. Bring your Christmas spirit and enjoy an hour with other history enthusiasts.
Winterset Festival of Lights
Friday, November 28, 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Winterset Courthouse Square
Free admission
MCHS is adding lighted displays to this magical annual event in the Courthouse Historic District. At 5:00 pm, the whole family can enjoy food and warm beverages provided by local non-profit organizations, live and lighted window displays, free horse-drawn wagon rides, extended shopping hours, and photo opportunity with Santa, all around the Courthouse Historic District. A lighted parade gets underway at 7:15 pm, culminated with Santa lighting up the square.
Led by the Madison County Chamber of Commerce, see full information here.
Santa on The Hill
Saturday, December 20, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Madison County Historical Museum Lounge
Free admission
Come on out to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus and tell him your last-minute wishes. You and your family can snap a photo in front of our fireplace and huge Christmas tree.
The first 100 kids receive a gift bag.
Living Nativity Experience
Sunday, December 21 and Monday, December 22, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Madison County Historical Complex Grounds
Free admission
The 34rd annual Living Nativity Experience is presented by the First United Methodist Church of Winterset and the Winterset Foursquare Church, throughout the Madison County Historical Complex. Come experience the shepherds, inn keeper, and angels, all leading to the Holy Family in the Bevington stable.
Museum Closed, See you in 2026
Opens May 1, 2026
Madison County Historical Complex
The 2025 visitor season may have ended, but the museum staff and volunteers keep busy until opening day. There are events to host, galleries to refresh, donations to accept, and much more. Staff is onsite most days, but it is a good idea to call ahead, just in case: 515-462-2134.