Holiday Light Tours Near Des Moines

'Tis the season for sparkling lights and holiday magic near the Des Moines West KOA

The area around Des Moines offers a variety of dazzling light displays, perfect for creating cherished family memories this holiday season.

Here are some of the must-see local light displays and tours:

Drive-Through Light Shows

Enjoying the lights from the warmth and comfort of your car is a classic holiday tradition.

• Jolly Holiday Lights: A beloved Des Moines tradition, this drive-through show features millions of lights and benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
  • Location: Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines
  • Details: Runs from late November through early January. Tickets are available online in advance.
• Santa's Rock N Lights: This unique, animated drive-through experience at Living History Farms features a mile-long course of lights synchronized to music, including light tunnels and whimsical displays like dinosaurs.
  • Location: Living History Farms, Urbandale
  • Details: Prices start around $24.99 per car, and tickets must be purchased online to reserve a time slot.
• Tinseltown: A newer light show at Water Works Park that offers a range of holiday-themed activities, including a lighted stroll or bike ride option.
  • Location: Des Moines Water Works Park, Des Moines

Walk-Through Experiences & Neighborhood Displays

For those who prefer to bundle up and stroll, these options offer a different perspective.

• Winter Wonderscape Holiday Light Show: Located a short drive from Des Moines, Reiman Gardens hosts a captivating walk-through light extravaganza across its 17-acre site.
  • Location: Reiman Gardens, Ames
  • Details: Features illuminated tunnels, a 20-foot-wide fountain of lights, and s'mores stations. Timed tickets should be purchased in advance.
• Beaverdale Lights: A charming community-based experience where residents in the Beaverdale neighborhood compete with elaborate home decorations, making the entire area a festive destination for casual driving or walking tours.
  • Location: Ashby and Wallace Avenues, Des Moines
  • Details: Free to enjoy.
• Windsor Wonderland: Similar to Beaverdale, this neighborhood event in Windsor Heights brightens up the season with numerous decorated homes and a community feel.
  • Location: South of Hickman Road, Franklin Avenue, Marylynn Drive, and 72nd Street area
  • Details: Free to the public.

Plan Your Festive Evening

To make the most of your light tour:

• Check Hours: Operating hours can vary and are subject to change due to weather, so check specific websites before heading out.
• Stay Warm: For drive-throughs, bring blankets and hot cocoa. For walk-throughs, dress in plenty of warm layers.
• Book Ahead: Many ticketed events require online ticket purchases in advance to secure a time slot.

After a magical evening of lights, return to the comfort of your stay at the Des Moines West KOA to warm up and relax.

Find operating hours and ticket information for many of these locations at the Travel Iowa website