🎄 Where to see holiday lights in Central Iowa
Here are some of the best places to see Christmas lights in Des Moines this holiday season.
1. SANTA’S ROCK N LIGHTS
You’re invited to experience the themed worlds of light including dinosaur world, over 700 feet of tunnels, and over a mile-long route in this animated drive-thru light show. Online registration required.
When: November 27 – January 3, hours vary by day
Where: Living History Farms, 11121 Hickman Rd, Urbandale
2. JOLLY HOLIDAY LIGHTS
The biggest light show in the state is Jolly Holiday Lights. This year they’re celebrating its 25th year of raising money to fund wishes for Iowa kids through Make-a-Wish Iowa. This essential holiday tradition includes a 2.5-mile stretch featuring more than 100 different light displays. Admission starts at $20 per car. You can also support the cause by shopping the online Wish Shop and arrange for your child to receive a personalized email from Santa.
Where: Adventureland, 3300 Adventureland Drive, Altoona
When: 5:30 – 10 pm November 27 – December 30. Closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Tickets: Pricing is based on vehicle type/passenger capacity. Tickets start at $20 per car - Purchase your ticket by Nov. 25th and save $5!
3. GINGERBREAD LANE
Richland Court transforms into Ankeny's very own Gingerbread Lane. Each weekend, Santa and his friends greet visitors and collects non-perishable food for the Food Bank of Iowa.
When: From 5:30 to 10 p.m. through Dec. 31
Where: Southeast Richland Court, Ankeny
Tips: Bring food to donate and check Gingerbread Lane's Facebook page for updates.
4. HISTORIC VALLEY JUNCTION
The charm of historic Valley Junction really comes out during the holidays. Enjoy over 100,000 lights and displays and be sure to come early to eat dinner and visit the over 150 specialty shops, restaurants, and services before the lights come on. Valley Junction also hosts a few fun holiday events in December, check them out here.
When: Through January 1 from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Where: Fifth Street and Railroad Avenue, West Des Moines, IA
5. WINTER WONDERSCAPE WALK-THROUGH LIGHT SHOW AT REIMAN GARDENS
Reiman Gardens in Ames is unveiling “Winter Wonderscape” this year - a walk-through light show in the outdoor gardens. The gardens feature a variety of immersive light displays throughout 17 acres. Walk through brightly lit tunnels, meander through fantasy lights falling like stars, view massive disco balls twirling to laser lights, enjoy a 20’ wide fountain and a wide array of other sparkling wonders.
When: Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, December 3 - January 2, 5:00 p.m. to last ticket sold at 8:30 p.m. Per-purchasing tickets is encouraged.
Where: Reiman Gardens 1407 University Blvd Ames, IA 50011
6. BEAVERDALE LIGHTS
This annual tradition mixes the charm of the neighborhood's homes with the festive feel of the holidays. About 50 homes are decorated for the community to see, thanks for the friendly competition sponsored by the Beaverdale Neighborhood Association.
When: From 6 to 9 p.m. until Dec. 31
Where: Ashby and Wallace avenues near Beaver Avenue
7. BOONE AND SCENIC VALLEY RAILROAD – SANTA EXPRESS
The Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad’s popular Santa Express train, named one of the 30 Best Holiday and Christmas Trains in the US, is a one-hour round trip journey to the quaint but festive “North Pole.” Along the way you’ll hear the story of Santa’s Scenic Valley Ride, sing Christmas carols and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. This unique experience has become a memorable family tradition for families across Iowa. Pro-tip: holiday pajamas are encouraged, no matter your age!
When: Santa Express trains operate on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November 27 through December 20. Tickets are $20 - 45 per person.
Where: 225 10th Street, Boone, IA 50036
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE! 🎄