Kick off the winter season with a bit of history and holiday shopping in Algona.
Algona’s busy shopping district offers everything from boutique clothing to pickleball paddles. Find gifts for all ages, shoes, clothing, flower arrangements, sports equipment, collectibles, antiques and much more, as well as the fuel you need for a day of shopping. Special events downtown include Live Greeting Card Windows the Monday after Thanksgiving and visits from Santa Claus. Check the Algona Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page for dates and times.
The Algona Nativity Scene draws hundreds of people each year for a historical holiday visit. The scene features 65 half life-sized figures that were built by Eduard Kaib, Horst Wendlandt, Eric Knoll and three others who were German Prisoners of War at Camp Algona during World War II. When the war ended, they donated the scene to the community of Algona as a gesture of hope and peace. The Nativity Scene is located at the Kossuth County Fairgrounds and is under the care of the First United Methodist Church of Algona. In December, visit Monday through Saturday from 2 to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 8 p.m. There is no fee to view the Nativity Scene, but donations are accepted. The Nativity Scene is open in December and by appointment year-round.
To learn more about the POW camp and the stories of the people involved, visit the Camp Algona POW Museum. This museum, located on Thorington Street, is dedicated to preserving the history of the Prisoner of War camp that existed in Algona from 1943 through 1946 that hosted thousands of Germans. The museum’s exhibits also reflect upon the experience of the 2,600 men and women from Kossuth County who were called to military service. Visit the museum’s website and Facebook page to learn about dates and times of operation.
Another great museum stop during the holidays is the Kossuth Agriculture and Motor Sport Museum and the Iowa Racing Hall of Fame, which are also located on the Kossuth County Fairgrounds. During the holidays, it is especially fun for families to view the Benschoter Train Depot, featuring several operational model trains running through unique, hand-built scenery.
The Kossuth County Historical Society offers a look into the past. Check the society’s Facebook page for updated hours and holiday exhibits.
Shop, stroll and enjoy Algona’s history, heritage and holiday shopping this season. To learn more, contact the Algona Area Chamber of Commerce at 515-295-7201.