Des Moines Christmas Lights 2025

Discover 6 verified christmas lights in Des Moines and nearby areas.

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Welcome to your guide for Des Moines Christmas lights and holiday displays, where the season truly comes alive with sparkling charm. Whether you're a local or visiting, this page will help you find the best spots to enjoy festive light displays around the city.

Among the beloved neighborhood favorites are the Dogtown Lights in the Drake Neighborhood and the dazzling Dome for the Holidays at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. These highlights showcase the warmth and creativity of holiday lights near Des Moines.

You'll find a mix of free neighborhood displays, ticketed events, drive-through lights like Jolly Holiday Lights, and walkable trails to explore. Dive in to discover the perfect way to experience the season’s glow and make the most of your visit.

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All Christmas Lights Around Des Moines

Jolly Holiday Lights

Des Moines, IA
$
Nov 21 – Jan 4, 2026

Drive-through light display supporting Make-A-Wish Iowa

Experience the magic of Jolly Holiday Lights, a beloved drive-through holiday spectacle at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. With over 3 million lights, this event transforms the grounds into a winter wonderland. For over 20 years, it has been a cherished...

Holiday Light DisplaysDrive Through DisplaysFamily Friendly

Santa's Rock n Lights

Urbandale, IA 8 mi from Des Moines
$$
Nov 28 – Dec 31

Award-winning drive-through Christmas light show

Embark on a magical journey through Santa's Rock n Lights, a premier drive-through Christmas light show. This acclaimed event, voted the best in greater Des Moines, transforms the night into a wonderland of animated displays and synchronized lights set to...

Holiday Light DisplaysDrive Through DisplaysSynchronized Lights

Uptown Wonderlights

Ankeny, IA 10 mi from Des Moines
Free
Nov 14 – Dec 31

Over 50 animated light displays

Step into a winter wonderland at Uptown Wonderlights, where over 50 animated light displays transform the streets of Uptown Ankeny and the Ankeny Market & Pavilion into a magical holiday spectacle. This enchanting experience is free for all to enjoy,...

Holiday Light DisplaysFree EventFamily Friendly

Reiman Gardens Winter Wonderscape

Ames, IA 29 mi from Des Moines
$$
Dec 4 – Dec 27

Over 200,000 dazzling lights in a botanical garden setting.

Experience the magic of Reiman Gardens' Winter Wonderscape, an enchanting holiday light show featuring over 200,000 dazzling lights across 17 acres. Wander through captivating light tunnels, marvel at giant laser-lit disco balls, and witness dynamic light strands dancing over a...

Holiday Light DisplaysFestive DecorationsFamily Friendly

Merry-N-County Christmas Holiday Lights

Knoxville, IA 32 mi from Des Moines
$
Nov 19 – Dec 23

Drive-through holiday lights with Santa mailbox

Experience the magic of the season with a festive drive-through holiday light display at Marion County Park. Tune into 95.3 FM for Christmas music to complement the dazzling lights. Don't forget to bring letters for Santa to drop in the...

Holiday Light DisplaysDrive Through DisplaysSanta Visits

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Christmas light displays in and around Des Moines?

Top displays include the Dogtown Lights in the Drake Neighborhood, the Dome for the Holidays at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and the Jolly Holiday Lights drive-through at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. These offer a range of experiences from walkable neighborhood displays to immersive light shows.

What is the difference between drive-through and walkable Christmas light options in Des Moines?

Drive-through options like Jolly Holiday Lights allow you to enjoy festive displays from the comfort of your car, often featuring large-scale, synchronized light shows. Walkable options, such as neighborhood displays and the Dome for the Holidays, offer a more intimate experience where you can stroll among lights and interactive exhibits.

When do Christmas light displays typically start in Des Moines?

Most Christmas light displays in Des Moines start in early to mid-November, with events like Dome for the Holidays beginning around mid-November and drive-through displays such as Jolly Holiday Lights opening in late November, running through early January.

Are there free Christmas light displays available in Des Moines?

Yes, several neighborhood displays like Dogtown Lights and Beaverdale Holiday Lights offer free viewing. These community-driven displays provide a festive atmosphere without an admission fee, perfect for casual visits and family outings.

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