Question 1

What is Jolly Holiday Lights

Accepted Answer

Jolly Holiday Lights is a beloved drive-through holiday light display in the Des Moines metro that has been spreading cheer for more than two decades.

Question 2

Who is hosting Jolly Holiday Lights this year?

Accepted Answer

Winterland Inc. is proud to continue the tradition. Winterland has been involved with Jolly Holiday Lights for the past eight years, helping to create its magical, lighted displays.

Question 3

How will Jolly Holiday Lights continue to support Make-A-Wish Iowa?

Accepted Answer

For every ticket sold, $1 will be donated to Make-A-Wish® Iowa to help grant wishes for children with critical illnesses across the state. In addition, 20% of all sponsorship revenue is donated back to Make-A-Wish Iowa, amplifying the impact of every partnership.
By attending Jolly Holiday Lights, you’re not only enjoying a festive winter experience but also contributing to an important cause. Winterland is committed to preserving the event’s tradition and ensuring Make-A-Wish Iowa remains a key beneficiary for years to come.

Question 4

What Wish Did Jolly Holiday Lights Help Grant Last Year?

Accepted Answer

Through its partnership with Make-A-Wish® Iowa, Jolly Holiday Lights helped make six-year-old Everleigh’s wish come true. Born with a respiratory disorder, Everleigh had spent most of her life traveling for surgeries in Philadelphia, so airplanes had always meant anxiety and hospitals. But her wish changed that.

Thanks to the generosity of event guests, sponsors, and Make-A-Wish Iowa, Everleigh and her family were able to take a joyful trip where she met her favorite princesses and experienced the magic of travel without fear. For the first time, flying meant fun, adventure, and possibility.

Winterland’s Jolly Holiday Lights, in partnership with Make-A-Wish Iowa, continues to make wishes like Everleigh’s possible, turning moments of hardship into memories of hope and happiness for children across the state.

Question 5

Where is Jolly Holiday Lights located this year?

Accepted Answer

Jolly Holiday Lights will take place at its new location: the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. This means the Fairgrounds, as a fellow nonprofit, will also benefit from the event.

Question 6

Will there be any changes to the light displays?

Accepted Answer

Jolly Holiday Lights will still feature many of the dazzling displays you know and love, including Make-A-Wish Iowa's iconic lighted logo. Winterland is excited to bring new creativity to the displays while keeping the tradition alive.

Question 7

Where do I enter at the Fairgrounds?

Accepted Answer

Enter at Gate 2 at the intersection of E University Avenue and E 33rd St

Question 8

Can I bring food and/or drinks? Will food, drinks or merchandise be available for purchase?

Accepted Answer

Outside food and beverages are allowed. Please keep all trash inside your vehicle. There will be light-up merchandise and candy available for sale at the gate.

Question 9

Are pets allowed?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Please keep your fur babies secure and cozy inside your vehicle at all times.

Question 10

Am I permitted to get out of my car while at the venue?

Accepted Answer

No, patrons must remain in their vehicle for the duration of the show.

Question 11

Are there places to take pictures?

Accepted Answer

Guests are welcome and encouraged to take pictures of the experience from the safety of their vehicle.

Question 12

How long does it take to drive through the display?

Accepted Answer

On busy nights, plan for 30–45 minutes to complete your trip through Jolly Holiday Lights.

Question 13

What kind of vehicles are allowed or prohibited?

Accepted Answer

Cars, trucks, and SUVs are permitted. Buses and limousines are welcome (see admission prices above). Oversized utility vehicles/semitrucks are not allowed.

Question 14

How will I be notified if there is a closure (weather-related or otherwise)?

Accepted Answer

Please check their Facebook page for all announcements.

Question 15

What's the benefit of purchasing in advance?

Accepted Answer

We do not have designated lanes at any of our shows for online tickets.