🎄 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 2, 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 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: November 26 – January 2 from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Closed December 24, 25, and 31st.
Tickets: Pricing is based on vehicle type/passenger capacity. Tickets start at $20 per car.
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: Early December – December 31 from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
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
Back for it’s second year, Reiman Gardens in Ames is hosting it’s “Winter Wonderscape” - 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: Weekends, December 1 – January 1
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: Until December 31 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Ashby and Wallace avenues near Beaver Avenue
7. WINTER WONDERLIGHTS
When: November 5 – January 1
Where: Uptown Ankeny
Walk, ride or drive through Uptown after sundown to enjoy over 30 animated holiday displays sponsored by local businesses.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE! 🎄