A Christmas Forest Full of Angels

Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2024 is fast approaching and we have twelve nonprofit “angel” organizations (7 returning and 5 new ones!) preparing decorations and designs to electrify and entrance those who visit the Weihnachtswald, Christmas Forest.

Each “Angel” organization has been featured in the lead up to CDM 2024, and we want to share with you what each nonprofit has in store for your viewing pleasure.

Click here to learn about how to bid on these trees.

The Silent Auction will begin the first day of the market, Thursday, December 5th at 5pm and conclude Sunday, December 8th at 5pm. Winning bidders will be notified via our text-to-bid platform and all trees will be wrapped and ready for pick up between 5:30pm and 7:30 pm Sunday evening. Park on Water St south of MLK to pick up your tree.

Click on the Item # below to see their tree and bid!
Click on the organization below to learn more about the organization.


Item 0101 presented by Daughters of Norway: St. Lucia Christmas

The tree décor is hand painted or donated by members of Daughters of Norway. Ornaments depict the celebration of St. Lucia of Norway. The tree is adorned with colorful wreaths, gingerbread men and angels. The St. Lucia angel topper has lighting and wreath.


Item 0102 presented by Community Hand Up: Old Iowa Christmas

The tree is decorated with items that take us back to the turn of the century.


Item 0103 presented by Hope Animal Rescue of Iowa: Wonders For Woofs & Whiskers

Acknowledging the journey of animals in need, who Hope steps up to foster with love and compassion. Help make this holiday season for them by spreading the joy, love, and hope we have for all of these precious souls.


Item 0104 presented by Self-Help International: Bright Beginnings, Healthy Futures

No matter where a child is born they deserves a chance to live a healthy life. This tree is filled with symbols of food, growth, and empowerment to show how SHI works to nourish mothers and infants so they can have a brighter future.


Item 0105 presented by Sons of Norway: Norway: Land of the Northern Lights

The tree portrays the beautiful glow of the aurora borealis. Starry nights and snow-covered fjords create a magical winter experience. Norwegians and tourists enjoy other winter activities such as skiing, ice fishing, dog sledding and reindeer sightings.


Item 0106 presented by Danish Brotherhood Lodge #15: Hans Christian Andersen

Hans Christian Andersen, the Danish storyteller whose fairy tales are world-renowned, was also a gifted artist. He made hundreds, perhaps thousands, of paper cuttings. This tree is decorated with beautiful paper cuttings to honor Hans Christian Andersen and his talents.


Item 0107 presented by Scottish Heritage Society of Iowa: A Scottish Christmas

A traditional winter wonderland of plaids with Scottie dogs, beloved highland cows, and wooly sheep.


Item 0108 presented by Iowa Environmental Council: IEC Aqua-FIR

IEC is committed to protecting and preserving safe water for all Iowans to drink and recreate in. This tree celebrates the beauty of our water intertwined with the tree, symbolizing the makeup of Iowa’s diverse environment. Every drop is sure to dazzle!


Item 0109 presented by Fort Des Moines Little League: Play Ball

America’s favorite pastime and the most wonderful time of the year come together on this tree. The ball fields and holidays with the family are two of the best ways to spend time and create memories!! This tree could be a part of your family’s memories for many years!


Item 0110 presented Prevent Child Abuse Iowa: What About You? A Tree of Kindness and Connection

Celebrating the spirit of kindness and community and inspired by PCA Iowa’s children’s book “What About You?” the tree is adorned with cutouts of the book’s characters. The ornaments remind us of the power of empathy and connection in shaping a better world. This tree invites viewers to reflect on how small acts of care can light up lives—just like the season itself.


Item 0111 presented by Mindspring Mental Health Alliance: Self Care During the Holidays

This holiday tree represents self-care and resilience during one of the busiest times of the year. Inspired by our popular Self-Care During the Holidays webinar, each ornament and item on the tree represents a practical strategy for managing holiday stress and maintaining balance. This tree is a warm reminder to nurture ourselves even amidst the holiday hustle.


Item 0112 presented by Des Moines Refugee Support: Unique & United