Jolly Holiday Lights Returns: New Venue, Same Tradition
The holiday season is approaching, which means one of central Iowa’s most beloved traditions, Jolly Holiday Lights, is right around the corner! For nearly 30 years, Jolly Holiday Lights has brought joy to thousands of families, filling Des Moines with magical lights, cherished memories and holiday cheer. This year, there are some exciting changes to this family-friendly event.
Here’s what you need to know about Jolly Holiday Lights this holiday season.
A New Location and Classic Drive-Through Format
Jolly Holiday Lights will take place at the Iowa State Fairgrounds this year! Known for hosting some of the most iconic events in Iowa, the fairgrounds provide an ideal space to bring Jolly Holiday Lights back to its original drive-through experience. That means you can enjoy the warmth and magic of the lights from your car as you drive through the beautifully lit displays, taking in the sights with your loved ones close by.
The return to a drive-through format brings back the classic experience families have come to love, especially after last year’s detour to the Outlets of Des Moines. No more braving the cold on foot! Bundle up in the car, bring your favorite holiday snacks, and get ready to be surrounded by an enchanting world of lights and music.
Who’s Hosting Jolly Holiday Lights?
This year, Winterland Inc. is taking over as the event host. Winterland, a nationally recognized company specializing in holiday displays, has been helping create the festive scenes for Jolly Holiday Lights for the past eight years. Now, as host, Winterland is bringing its expertise to ensure Jolly Holiday Lights can continue to delight families for years to come. And while there’s a new organizer, the event will still feature all the holiday charm that’s made it so memorable over the years.
Supporting Make-A-Wish® Iowa
Jolly Holiday Lights has always been a major fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Iowa. Although the nonprofit isn’t organizing the event anymore, Winterland is committed to keeping Make-A-Wish Iowa as the charitable recipient. This year, $1 from every ticket sold will go directly to Make-A-Wish Iowa, helping to grant wishes for children with critical illnesses across Iowa.
And families will still be able to spot Make-A-Wish Iowa’s treasured lighted logo shining among the holiday displays — a symbol of the important work Make-A-Wish does for children in our state.
What To Expect at Jolly Holiday Lights
At Jolly Holiday Lights, visitors can look forward to a stunning selection of holiday displays, both familiar and new. Whether you’re excited to see the classic scenes you remember from past years or looking forward to discovering fresh additions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As you make your way through the fairgrounds, each display will light up the night and capture the spirit of the season.
And don’t forget, since you’ll stay in your car, you can make this an extra cozy family outing! Bring along a thermos of hot chocolate and enjoy the magic of the season together as a family.
Key Details for Planning Your Visit
Dates: Jolly Holiday Lights will run from Nov. 29, 2024, through Jan. 4, 2025, giving you plenty of time to catch this holiday display.
Location: The new location is the Iowa State Fairgrounds, which offers ample space and a fantastic setup for the event’s drive-through format.
Tickets: Tickets are available at the gate or online. Advance ticket holders will have shorter wait times to enter the display. Remember, $1 from every ticket will go to Make-A-Wish Iowa.
For more details and to purchase tickets, visit JollyHoliday-Lights.com.
Make Jolly Holiday Lights Part of Your Family’s Tradition
Gather your family, plan your visit and experience the wonder of Jolly Holiday Lights! It’s the perfect way to create new traditions, share joyful moments and give back to a wonderful cause this holiday season.
