Winter Wonderland Holiday Experience
Guests can take in a one-mile drive-through light show synchronized to music or ride through the displays in historic vehicles such as Ford Model Ts. Indoor exhibits feature decorated rooms spanning the 1900s through the 1990s, the Festival of Trees, an elf hunt, and Santa meet-and-greets. The grounds also host an ornament crafting station, a holiday light maze, life-sized glowing reindeer, and on-site dining.
What to Expect
Features a one-mile drive-through light show and rides in vintage cars.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Gilmore Car Museum
Food & Drink
Seasonal snacks and sweet treats are available, along with beer, wine, spirits, and traditional holiday drinks at open event dining venues.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children who enjoy holiday lights and hands-on activities
Vibe
Festive and nostalgic
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Vintage car rides cost $5 per carload.
- Hours: 5:00pm–9:00pm each night of operation; Santa visits 5–8pm from November 28–December 23; Family NYE Party 5–8pm on December 31.
- Parking: Parking at the Gilmore Car Museum is free.
- Accessibility: Free wheelchairs and mobility scooter rentals are available first-come, first-served, and accessible restrooms are located in the Main Gallery.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed; the event is for humans only.
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets for the exact night you plan to come, since tickets are date-specific and can't be refunded or exchanged for another event.
- Wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear, and consider a flashlight, because outdoor paths can be dark, uneven, crowded and icy.
- Leave tripods, monopods and drones in the car or at home, because they aren't allowed in and there's no storage for them.
- Come on a Friday if you want to end your night with the fireworks show that is new this season.
- Visit before December 23 if a Santa photo is on your list, since the free Santa meet-and-greets run only through that date.
Special Events & Promotions
- New this year: Holiday Song Covers Light Show set to tracks like the Jackson 5's "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" and the Beach Boys' "Little Saint Nick."
- Fireworks Fridays: the evening ends with a fireworks show.
- Fundraiser Sundays: themed performances and donation opportunities supporting local schools.
- Craft Market on Dec. 20–21 with artisan vendors selling holiday goods and handmade gifts.
- Family NYE Party on Dec. 31 with character shows and themed fun.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my vehicle fit through the light tunnel?
Your vehicle has to clear a 9-foot overhead obstruction. The arched tunnel is 12 feet tall and 22 feet wide but slopes at the sides. Standard vehicles fit fine, but measure a lifted vehicle or small bus at home first.
What food and drinks are available?
Seasonal snacks are sold at the Pedal Car Café, Blue Moon Diner and Carriage House Bar. The Heritage Cafe and Gilmore Bar are open too, serving beer, wine, spirits and traditional holiday drinks.
Is there a time limit on our visit?
No. You can stay and enjoy everything until the event ends for the night.
Can we bring a stroller or wagon?
Yes, bring your own, because none are available to rent. Extra-wide strollers and wagons may not fit through some of the narrower passageways.
Which buildings are open?
Open: the Heritage Center, Franklin, Lincoln, Steam Barn, Carriage House, Shell Station, Diner and Cafe. Closed: the CCCA Museum, Pierce-Arrow, Campania Barn, Motorcycle Gallery, Cadillac LaSalle and Ford Model A buildings.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.