The Trail of Lights
Branson's 'Trail of Lights' is a drive-through attraction on the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead. It features colorful lights and animated displays. 'Cocoa for a Cause' offers hot cocoa and supports local charities.
What to Expect
Branson's longest-running drive-through Christmas lights attraction.
Event Details
Duration
Dusk till 10:00 PM (Sun-Thu), Dusk till 11:00 PM (Fri-Sat); Dec 31st closes at 9 PM
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The Shepherd of the Hills
Food & Drink
Complimentary hot cocoa available as part of 'Cocoa for a Cause'.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, magical, traditional
Energy Level
Low (drive-through)
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (drive-through, but check for extreme weather closures)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is free for all activities.
- Accessibility: The park is located on natural terrain, so not all areas are on ADA grade. Some paved paths are available.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Purchase tickets online in advance to potentially expedite your entry, though it does not allow you to skip the physical line.
- Consider visiting on a weeknight (Sunday-Thursday) for potentially shorter wait times, as they close earlier than on weekends.
- Bring cash for easier payment at the gate, though credit cards are also accepted (note that processing fees may apply).
- Participate in the 'Cocoa for a Cause' initiative by enjoying a complimentary hot cocoa and donating to local charities.
- Ensure your vehicle is single-axle as larger vehicles like vans may have different pricing or restrictions.
Special Events & Promotions
- Cocoa for a Cause initiative
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Trail of Lights and the North Pole Adventure?
The Trail of Lights is a drive-through light display, while the North Pole Adventure is a separate event that includes activities and a visit from Santa.
Can I purchase tickets on the day of my visit?
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the gate, but purchasing online in advance is recommended to expedite the process.
What are the hours for the Trail of Lights?
The trail is open from dusk until 10:00 PM Sunday through Thursday, and dusk until 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday. On December 31st, it closes at 9 PM.
Are there any restrictions on vehicle types?
Yes, only single-axle vehicles are permitted for the drive-through attraction.
What is the 'Cocoa for a Cause' initiative?
It's an initiative where visitors can enjoy a complimentary hot cocoa and make donations to local charities, with 100% of proceeds benefiting those organizations.
More Christmas Events near Nixa
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.