A Beloved Christmastime Tradition, Ruley’s Santa Claus Land Is A Holiday Hidden Gem In Kentucky

There are always those people who, year after year, go all out with the Christmas decorations and even try to add more and more as the years go on. These neighborhood displays are some of the most cherished holiday traditions in Kentucky and they are always created by people who are passionate about the community and of course Christmas. In the town of Loretto, you'll find Ruley's Santa Claus Land. A beloved Christmastime tradition, Ruley's Santa Claus Land in Kentucky is a holiday hidden gem and worth a drive if it's not already on your Christmas bucket list. With so much Christmas cheer, you are sure to see Santa Claus in Kentucky this year.

Editor's Note: After 6 years of spreading Christmas joy to our families in Kentucky, it’s with great regret that we announce that Ruley’s Santa Claus Land in Loretto has closed. We understand that this beloved celebration brought joy to all of us, so, although nothing can take its place, here are some Christmas light displays in Kentucky that we recommend.

Ruley's Santa Claus Land is located in the small town of Loretto, not far from the popular Maker's Mark property.

The farm is owned by the Ruley family and this incredible display has grown over the years, welcoming the community to come and experience it. It was the passion of Paul Ruley that got it all started, and since his passing in 2016, his loving family has kept the tradition alive.

It's not often you'll find over one million lights on a farm in the country, but you can tell from the road that something special happens at Ruley's.

The event is open nightly through the holiday season and is free for visitors. Of course they welcome donations to help this tradition continue.

As you pull onto the property, you'll love looking around at the wide array of lights and decorations.

The family has added to the display over the decades and it's now one of the most over-the-top and enchanting spots in the state. While those local to the area know it well, it's worth a drive if you are anywhere near it during the month of December.

You can park your car and walk around, taking in all of the magical lights.

Santa stops by Ruley's several nights and you can pay him a visit and get a picture. Visits and pictures with Santa are $5 and go towards the upkeep of the display.

You can head inside the garage for more magic and even more Christmas decor.

Sit down and chat with the family and other guests and hear the story of Paul Ruley and his love of Christmas decorations and welcoming people to his farm.

Inside you'll find charming winter scenes and decorations everywhere you look.

You can also warm up by a fire outside and make plenty of family memories.

Ruley's Santa Claus Land is one of those legendary places in Kentucky that is loved by so many.

When something is created out of love, it's always a magical place, and that is definitely the case at this delightful Christmas lights display in Kentucky.

Ruley's Santa Claus Land in Kentucky has been a beloved Christmastime tradition in this area for a while and hopefully it will continue for generations to come. Have you been to this over-the-top neighborhood display? Share your memories with us in the comments!

For more information on Ruley's Santa Claus Land in Kentucky, follow along on Facebook. There, you'll also find updated information on Santa visits and any closures. The regular hours for the display are Monday - Thursday 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Sunday 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. So be sure to check back to the Facebook page for the most updated info as the season moves on.

And if you need more inspiration for wintertime fun, check out the 10 best things to do in winter in Kentucky.