Celebration of Lights
O'Fallon's Celebration of Lights transforms Fort Zumwalt Park into a winter wonderland from November 27 to December 30, 2026. This beloved annual event features a dazzling drive-through light display, with each scene uniquely crafted by local organizations and businesses. Special evenings include the pedestrian-only Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll with Santa and fireworks, as well as unique trolley, hayride, and train experiences.
What to Expect
Annual drive-through holiday light display with specialty rides.
Event Details
Duration
6-9 p.m. nightly for drive-through; specific times for specialty rides
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
City of O'Fallon
Food & Drink
Snacks and drinks permitted on trolleys (sealable containers only, no popcorn).
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low (drive-through), medium (specialty rides)
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High (outdoor event, some activities may be weather-dependent)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking for trolley rides is at Alligators Creek Aquatic Center. Carpooling is recommended for hayrides due to limited parking.
- Accessibility: ADA arrangements can be made for trolley and hayrides upon request.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Purchase tickets in advance online, as no sales are allowed at the gate. Specialty ride reservations should be made at least two weeks ahead.
- Check the specific closure dates for vehicles (November 30, December 6, 7, 8, and 14) and the park closure on Christmas Day.
- For trolley rides, arrive 15 minutes early at Alligators Creek Aquatic Center for loading. For hayrides and train rides, use the Plackemeier Drive entrance.
- Consider attending the Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll for a unique pedestrian experience with Santa and fireworks, but note it's only on Dec 6, 7, & 8.
- Tickets are non-transferable and cannot be used in subsequent years; ensure you use them within the 2026 season.
Special Events & Promotions
- Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll (pedestrian-only event)
- Trolley Rides
- Hayrides
- City Train Rides
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get out of my car to take photos during the drive-through?
No, exiting your vehicle is not permitted while driving through the display for safety reasons.
How long does the drive-through typically take?
On busy nights like Fridays and Saturdays, the drive-through experience, including any wait time, can take 60-90 minutes.
Are there restrooms available during the drive-through nights?
No, restrooms are not available for visitors on the nights designated for vehicle drive-throughs.
What is the difference between the drive-through and the Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll?
The drive-through is for vehicles only, while the Holiday Stroll (Dec 6-8) is a pedestrian-only event featuring Santa, fireworks, and treats.
Can I get a refund if I can't use my ticket?
No, all ticket sales are final and non-refundable. Tickets are also non-transferable to future years.
More Christmas Events Near O'Fallon
More Christmas Events near O'Fallon
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.