The Christmas are playing, the weather has chilled and the streets are lined with wreaths and tinsel — a sure sign that the holidays are here. It’s a time to gather with family to celebrate, cherish memories, and for many, this means going to see the Christmas light displays around town. Whether you’re in the heart of the Queen City or venturing out to Branson, we’ve got the best Christmas light displays for you to enjoy listed below. Check out our top picks!
Camp Out by Bagwell’s Bright Lights
Nestled away on Cambridge Street, the Bagwell lights are a must-visit for Springfield families. This massive Christmas lights display spans several yards over, and all of the displays are interconnected and animated. Over 150,000 lights twinkle throughout this light show, providing plenty of dazzle in the space. If you’re on the hunt for a new holiday tradition, the Bagwell Lights are perfect for bringing the family together.
Drive Through the Lights of Ozark
Finley River Park is a gorgeous tucked away corner in Ozark, and during the holidays it becomes its own beautiful drive-through Christmas light display. Finley River Park light exhibit is free to tour with any donations going toward funding park needs. The drive-through is usually a little slower than other light displays, so you’ll get plenty of time to experience all of the lights!
Visit Twinkling Downtown Springfield
The holiday and Christmas wouldn’t be complete without lighting up downtown. Each year, the Mayor lights up a tree on Park Central Square and kicks off the beginning of the holiday season. In addition to the Christmas tree, several light displays are placed around the square and the rest of the Downtown area. Our suggestion: grab a hot chocolate from one of the local coffee shops and take a stroll through the square for a tour of the lights!
Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City
No list of Christmas lights is complete without Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City. With over 6.5 million lights, this display is something that must be seen to be believed. And while you’re there enjoying the lights, you can take in a holiday or Christmas show to get you into the spirit, or visit one of 60 unique shops throughout the park to find the perfect gift. The Silver Dollar City Christmas Parade is an additional mesmerizing event, featuring a breathtaking array of festive floats and enchanting displays, all set to the iconic and intense music of “Carol of the Bells” – a cherished holiday tradition that adds an extra layer of magic to the seasonal celebration. If you haven’t gone yet, don’t wait! You’ll regret missing this spectacular holiday attraction.
Hop into a Lit-Up Limo Tour
Four words: Christmas light limo tour. Make your limo dreams come true at Branson Limousine with a two hour light tour that comes with a tuxedoed chauffeur and candy canes. On your tour, you’ll be able to get a glimpse of the Strip, Downtown Branson, Big Cedar Lodge and some of the smaller local light displays. You won’t forget this trip anytime soon.
Get Up Close to Gardens Aglow
The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is always a pretty sight, but its beauty is kicked up a notch during Gardens Aglow. Over 75,000 lights are arranged around the garden, highlighting the unique architecture and landscaping of the area. Grab your coat and cozy up for a gorgeous, glowing night.
Take a Tour of Candy Cane Lane
Take a trip to the farm to see the lights of Rutledge-Wilson’s Candy Cane Lane. This display comes with over 10,000 lights and farm-themed light displays, plus tasty hot cocoa at their concession stand. Grab the family and head down to the farm for an unbeatable local show!
Travel Through the Trail of Lights
Shepherd of the Hills’s Trail of Lights is Branson’s longest running drive-through light show, making its shining light show 30 years old this year. Millions of lights are on display as you drive through, with themed exhibits the whole family will love. You can buy your tickets online or swing by to enjoy – be sure to bring your holiday cheer!
Take a Christmas Lights Tour at Big Cedar and Top of the Rock
Travel through a magical winter wonderland by car, golf cart or tram with a Christmas Lights Tour at Big Cedar Lodge and Top of the Rock in Ridgedale. A Deck the Trails Self-Guided Drive-Thru Tour lets you view breathtaking festive displays from the comfort of your own vehicle. You can also enjoy a Holiday Tram Ride or hop on for the Lost Canyon Christmas Cart Tour at Top of the Rock. Be sure to grab some delicious hot chocolate, cider or s’mores on a stick while enjoying the lights.
Check out this route for a fun tour of Christmas lights around the region!
On the hunt for a city to share your holiday cheer? Download our relocation guide and take a look at the life of a Springfieldian.
