ALTOONA, Iowa — It's the most wonderful time of the year: Jolly Holiday Lights returns to the metro on Friday, Nov. 17.
The beloved central Iowa light show began in 1996 as a fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Iowa. But for longtime attendees, the 2023 event might look a little different.
Over the summer, organizers announced the event is changing locations, moving from Adventureland Resort to the Outlets of Des Moines.
"We needed – and our attendees wanted – to rejuvenate this iconic family holiday experience," Jolly Holiday Lights organizers said on the event's website. "One thing we love about the Des Moines community is their eagerness to embrace new things. We feel the revised, upbeat format of Jolly Holiday Lights in 2023, paired with the popular location of the outlet mall, will make for a great holiday experience for everyone."
Given the change in location, Jolly Holiday Lights will no longer be a drive-through light show. Instead, visitors can walk or bike through the area to see the light displays.
Admission to see the light show is free. Organizers plan to raise money for Make-A-Wish through other related ventures, including special events and the Wish Shop.
Planning on attending Jolly Holiday Lights this year? Read on to find all the information you need.
When is Jolly Holiday Lights 2023?
Jolly Holiday Lights kicks off on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023 and runs through Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024.
The Make-A-Wish Iowa Jolly Holiday Lights Wish Shop will be open during the outlet mall's hours. The Wish Shop will also be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Where will Jolly Holiday Lights take place?
Jolly Holiday Lights 2023 will take place at the Outlets of Des Moines in Altoona (801 Bass Pro Dr NW, Altoona, IA 50009). Previously, Jolly Holiday Lights took place at Adventureland Resort.
A statement on the Jolly Holiday Lights website reads in part, "While we are moving away from the park location, the relationship remains strong and we are thankful for the support that they provide to our Wish kids in a multitude of other ways. We are thankful for the strong ties we have within the Des Moines metro community to plan a very special holiday event at the Outlets of Des Moines."
What is the cost of attending Jolly Holiday Lights?
Admission to Jolly Holiday Lights 2023 is completely free, but there are other ways to get in the holiday spirit that will cost you a little cash.
Patrons interested in shopping can visit the Wish Shop or purchase a Jolly Holiday Lights coupon book to use at one of the Outlets of Des Moines' many shops.
Admission to special events, such as the "Train Ride at the Outlets", requires attendees to purchase tickets. For more information, click here. Proceeds from the events and the Wish Shop will go to Make-A-Wish Iowa.
Feeling generous? Make a donation directly to Jolly Holiday Lights and Make-A-Wish Iowa here.
Can I volunteer at Jolly Holiday Lights?
Yes.
Make-A-Wish Iowa offers options to volunteer in the Wish Shop or at one of the four ticketed events. Sign up to volunteer here.
