Christmas is just around the corner, and Altoona is getting into the holiday spirit. During the spring and summer, the vacation town is best known for the theme park Adventureland – but Adventureland is closed for the season. That doesn’t mean the town is closed for business, as the road heading to the park has been completely transformed. Welcome to Jolly Holiday Lights, a seasonal drive-through Christmas lights display in Iowa put on by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The road and park have been adorned with a dazzling collection of light displays celebrating the sights, sounds, and most famous characters of Christmastime. So get everyone in the car, get in the spirit, and get ready to be amazed by Iowa’s merriest event.
During the warmer season, Altoona is alive with the sound of joyful screams at Adventureland’s roller coasters.
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Now, though, the park is being transformed into a peaceful refuge for holiday enjoyment - all in the name of a good cause.
Jolly Holiday Lights/Facebook
Volunteers are hard at work stringing Adventureland’s entry road up and down with dozens of dazzling displays for Jolly Holiday Lights.
Jolly Holiday Lights/Facebook
It’s all sponsored by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which gives kids battling or recovering from life-threatening illnesses their fondest wishes.
Jolly Holiday Lights/Facebook
This is a drive-through event, so you’ll be able to stay in your car sheltered from the cold while you enjoy the lights.
Jolly Holiday Lights/Facebook
The event is different every year, so keep an eye out for all your favorite Christmas characters.
Jolly Holiday Lights/Facebook
Some of them might look a little different than you’re used to, in unique and funny poses, but that’s part of the fun!
Jolly Holiday Lights/Facebook
And then there’s good old Saint Nick! You can expect to see him several times, sometimes trying out unusual forms of transportation.
Jolly Holiday Lights/Facebook
Around every corner is a new surprise, so take the drive for a good cause and enjoy Iowa’s most impressive lights display!
Jolly Holiday Lights/Facebook
Have you driven through Jolly Holiday Lights this year or during a past event? Let us know all about your trip to this famous Christmas lights display in Iowa in the comments section. For updates on this year’s event, you can visit the organization’s website or Facebook page. For more Iowa festivities, check out this iconic holiday home tour.
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Jolly Holiday Lights/Facebook
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Address: Jolly Holiday Lights, Adventureland Dr NE, Altoona, IA 50009, USA
