LET THERE BE LIGHTS
Jolly Holiday Lights
Jolly Holiday Lights has a new home for 2023! Now a free experience, head to Outlets of Des Moines to take in the beautiful light displays, as well as a Lights-to-Music Show that happens every 30 minutes. Still want to help in their mission with Make-A-Wish Iowa? They will have multiple ticketed events such as Breakfast with Santa, Sip & Shop, and more!
Where: 801 Bass Pro Dr NW, Altoona, IA 50009
When: November 17 – January 7
Santa’s Rock N Lights
Visitors to this Living History Farms light show will travel through the mystical dinosaur world and over 700 feet of tunnels, including the techno rainbow tunnel. Tune your car radio to the station synced to the show lights for an immersive, full-sensory experience!
Where: Living History Farms, 11121 Hickman Road, Urbandale
When: November 24 – December 31. Tickets start at $29.99 per vehicle and must be purchased in advance online.
Reiman Gardens Winter Wonderscape
Want to see some lights and get your steps in at the same time? Head up to Ames, where Reiman Gardens unveils “Winter Wonderscape” – a walk-through light show featuring 17 acres of immersive light displays. 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.
Where: 1407 University Boulevard Ames, IA 50011
When: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, December 1 – December 31, 5 p.m. to last ticket sold at 8 p.m. Tickets must be purchased online in advance and start at $7.
Dogtown Lights
A new holiday tradition returns for year three, as the Drake neighborhood receives a colorful makeover with Dogtown Lights. The entertainment district in the heart of campus will have double the amount of lights as last year and the lights will change in appearance to recognize things like Lunar New Year and Black History Month.
Where: 2321 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311
When: Through February 2024
Festival of Trees & Lights
This public event serves as a fundraiser for Blank Children’s Hospital and features beautifully decorated trees, food and entertainment, children’s activities, and more. Admission is $5 and free for children 2 and under.
Where: Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center at IEC - 833 5th Avenue, Des Moines
When: November 24 – 26
For a list of all the best holiday lights in Greater Des Moines, including neighborhoods, click here.
