Celebrate the holidays in November and December with these time-honored Algona traditions and events. Enjoy the lights, festivities and community spirit that are shared during this special time of year.
Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day
Before feasting on a traditional Thanksgiving meal, get a little exercise and help raise funds for the Kossuth County Food Pantry with the Algona Rotary’s Turkey Trot. This annual event is a casual, un-timed 5k for walkers and runners alike. The event begins and ends in downtown Algona. Registration begins at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning at the Algona Chamber office on State Street; the race begins at 8:30 a.m. All are welcome! Find the Algona Rotary on Facebook to learn more.
Live Greeting Card Windows
Kick off the holiday season with this free, fun event held in downtown Algona. Enjoy strolling carolers, popcorn and hot chocolate, horse-drawn wagon rides and live window displays on State Street. Stop in to see what your local businesses have to offer for holiday shopping. This event is typically held the Monday after Thanksgiving from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (The date for 2026 is Monday, November 30). Learn more from the Algona Area Chamber of Commerce.
On the same night Tacos for Tots is held at the First United Methodist Church from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. This tasty activity raises funds for families in need through the Kossuth County CARE Team. Dine in and carryout options are available. Freewill donations accepted.
Santa’s Family Workshop
Typically held the first Saturday of December (December 5, 2026) from 1 to 3 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Algona, Santa’s Family Workshop is a holiday tradition continued by the Algona Rotary for families and kids to enjoy. Bring your children to enjoy a free, craft-filled afternoon and a chance to see Santa before he heads back to the North Pole. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Free Merchant Movies at the State Five Theater
Kids can enjoy a free movie during the holiday season at the State Five Theater in Algona. Visit the theater’s website for a list of movies, dates and movie times. Free tickets are available at participating businesses around Algona.
Visit the POW-created Nativity Scene
The Algona Nativity Scene was built by Eduard Kaib, Horst Wendlandt, Eric Knoll and three friends who were Prisoners of War at Camp Algona during World War II. When the war ended, they donated the scene, which includes 65 one-half life size figures, to the town of Algona. The Nativity Scene is now under the care of the First United Methodist Church and is housed at the Kossuth County Fairgrounds. Find hours for the Nativity Scene and more information on the Camp Algona website.