WEST DES MOINES, Iowa —

West Des Moines’ historic Valley Junction lit up Thursday night as shoppers, families, and carolers filled the district for the first evening of its annual holiday celebration.

Stores stayed open late as visitors checked off gift lists and browsed festive window displays designed to spark the season’s spirit. The crisp fall air gave way to “fa-la-la’s” as carolers and performers lined the streets.

“It almost felt like Halloween was just here, so Christmas came early,” one visitor said.

For many, the opening night offered a head start on holiday shopping and a chance to support small businesses before the season gets too hectic. “It’s kind of a busy time, and it’ll sneak up on us pretty fast,” another attendee said.

The Nov. 20 kickoff marked the first of four T

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