Fort Wayne Holiday Lights Challenge
The Fort Wayne Holiday Lights Challenge invites visitors to explore the city's light displays using a free digital pass. Earn points by checking in at locations like Science Central, Fantasy of Lights, and Wild Lights at the Fort Wayne Zoo.
What to Expect
Free digital pass for city-wide holiday light exploration.
Event Details
Duration
Varies by location
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Visit Fort Wayne
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate and treats available at Fantasy of Lights Christmas Village and the Fort Wayne Zoo. Cafe Flora at Botanical Conservatory.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy festive holiday decorations.
Vibe
Festive, cheerful, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low to moderate, depending on how many locations are visited.
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (outdoor displays are best enjoyed in clear weather, but some are drive-through)
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is available at various locations, including Science Central and the Fort Wayne Zoo.
- Accessibility: The event promotes accessibility with an 'Accessible' icon and link on the website.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome) at the zoo; policy for other locations not specified.
Tips & Advice
- Download the Fantasy of Lights app for seamless ticket purchases and real-time wait times.
- Consider visiting Wild Lights at the Fort Wayne Zoo on a weekday evening to avoid larger crowds.
- Check the Visit Fort Wayne website for the most up-to-date operating hours for each individual light display.
- Bundle up and bring a thermos of hot chocolate for the drive-through displays, especially if visiting on a cold evening.
- Combine your visit to Fantasy of Lights with the nearby Wild Lights at the Fort Wayne Zoo for a full evening of festive fun.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free digital pass for the Holiday Lights Challenge
- Earn points to win exclusive prizes
- Bonus: Visit Wild Lights at the Fort Wayne Zoo for additional festive fun
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Holiday Lights Challenge return?
The Holiday Lights Challenge is scheduled to return in Fall 2026.
Is there a cost to participate in the Holiday Lights Challenge?
The Holiday Lights Challenge itself is free to join with a digital pass. However, individual attractions like Fantasy of Lights and Wild Lights at the Zoo may have separate admission fees.
How do I get the digital pass?
The digital pass is mobile-exclusive and will be instantly delivered via text and email upon signing up, with no apps required to download.
Can I win prizes by participating?
Yes, by checking into participating locations, you can earn points and enter to win exclusive Holiday Lights Challenge prizes.
Are there any specific dates for the light displays?
Dates vary by location. For example, the Botanical Conservatory's $1-Night Light Display runs on specific Thursdays and Fridays from late November to mid-December, while Jefferson Pointe's tree is lit from November 10th to December 31st. Wild Lights at the Zoo runs from late November to early January.
More Christmas Events near Fort Wayne
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.