The Trail of Lights
Visitors take a drive-through journey across the 160-acre Shepherd of the Hills Homestead to view millions of multi-colored Christmas lights along with themed and animated displays. Guests can also stop by Aunt Mollie’s Mercantile to pick up complimentary hot cocoa supporting local charities. The drive-through route is completely separate from the North Pole Adventure.
What to Expect
Drive-through light display across the 160-acre Shepherd of the Hills Homestead.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The Shepherd of the Hills
Food & Drink
Complimentary hot cocoa is available at Aunt Mollie’s Mercantile until one hour before closing, except on December 24; donations to local charities are welcome.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and groups seeking a festive drive-through outing
Vibe
Festive and glowing
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $30–$35 per carload (price differs); $50 per van for vehicles with 8–15 riders. Cash and/or credit card accepted; card processing fees are passed on to the consumer. Tickets can be purchased at the gate. Hot chocolate is free; donations to local charities are requested, and 100% of contributions go to the charities. – Get tickets
- Hours: Sunday–Thursday: dusk till 10:00 PM; Friday–Saturday: dusk till 11:00 PM; December 31: closes at 9 PM.
- Parking: The entrance is in the parking lot of the Inspiration Tower.
Tips & Advice
- Use a single-axle vehicle, as other vehicle types are not permitted on the drive-through route.
- Allow for a line even if you buy tickets online; online purchases do not let visitors skip it.
- You can buy tickets at the gate, as well as online.
- Stop at Aunt Mollie’s Mercantile for complimentary hot chocolate before the final hour; cocoa is not served on December 24.
- Bring cash or a card if you wish to donate to local charities through the Cocoa for a Cause initiative.
Special Events & Promotions
- The trail stays open later on Fridays and Saturdays than Sunday through Thursday.
- The trail closes earlier on December 31.
- This season introduces “Cocoa for a Cause”: complimentary hot cocoa, with donations benefiting local charities.
- Hot cocoa is not served on December 24.
- A separate van ticket is available for vehicles carrying 8–15 riders.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I see on the drive-through route?
The route winds through the homestead with millions of multicolored Christmas lights and themed, animated displays.
Is the drive-through part of North Pole Adventure?
No. The Trail of Lights drive-through is completely separate from North Pole Adventure.
What vehicles can use the route?
Single-axle vehicles only.
Can I get hot chocolate, and where is it served?
Complimentary hot chocolate is served in Aunt Mollie’s Mercantile until an hour before closing. It is not served on December 24.
Does buying a ticket online let me skip the line?
No. Online ticket purchases do not let visitors skip the line; tickets can also be bought at the gate.
More Christmas Events near Nixa
Always check the official website for the most current information.
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