The Holiday Lights At The Lake Trail In Iowa Is Positively Enchanting

Many of the holiday lights in Iowa are truly spectacular, and you'll be able to find a great display no matter where in the state you visit. Many of the best are hiding in out-of-the-way locations - like a humble campground on the outskirts of Iowa City. During the year, West Overlook Campground is an affordable place to pitch a tent or park an RV on the banks of the Iowa River. But as the holiday season rolls around, it transforms into the best holiday light trail in Iowa you might never have heard of. Welcome to Holiday Lights at the Lake, a stunning display of creative lighting that can be seen from your car or on a hike around the campground. It's only $10 per car or $5 for walkers, and the memories will last a lifetime. Check out the 2023 Holiday Lights at the Lake event below!

Welcome to Iowa City's best drive-through lights event - Holiday Lights at the Lake! This year's event starts Thanksgiving night and runs until New Year's Eve, seven nights a week.

What was once the West Overlook Campground is now a unique winter wonderland, playing host to countless cars as they drive through inventive gates and displays.

The dazzling tunnels of light are the highlight, each one just a little different as it illuminates the darkened campground.

The charming light displays are no less exciting, featuring recreations of popular Holiday characters in quirky posts.

Old Saint Nick is seen quite often - and he seems to have picked up some new hobbies in the off-season!

Every Wednesday, Holiday Lights at the Lake transforms again - for Walkthrough Wednesday, when you can ditch the car and hike around the displays!

This night incorporates some live actors, so you might wind up seeing some iconic Holiday heroes - and maybe a rogue or two!

And yes, the big man does show up! Santa will show up to greet holiday explorers, whether they're visiting by car or on foot.

The event only began last year, but it's already looking like it's going to be an annual holiday tradition in Iowa. For a look back at the first year of Holiday Lights at the Lake, check out this video by City Channel 4 below!

Have you visited Holiday Lights at the Lake in Iowa City? Let us know about your trip to this unique holiday light trail in Iowa in the comments section. If you're excited to visit for yourself, make sure to visit the Holiday Lights at the Lake website to buy tickets and the Holiday Lights at the Lake Facebook page for the latest updates on this year's event. For another unique light festival, check out this stunning garden of lights.

Looking for the perfect gift this holiday season? Check out our guide to the ideal gifts for travelers.