Imagine walking into a holiday dreamland, where over 4 million lights illuminate your path, warm fires invite you to relax, and the joy of the season fills every corner. Running throughout November and December, the 'Home for the Holidays' celebration at Big Cedar Lodge brings Christmas magic to life with ice skating under the stars, tram rides through dazzling lights, photos with Santa himself, and plenty of cozy moments to make your season one to remember.
Here’s a look at all the festive fun waiting during our Home for the Holidays season:
Nature at Night on the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail: Embark on a 2.5-mile journey through the illuminated Ozark landscape at Top of the Rock. The Nature at Night tour features stunning lighted displays and classic holiday scenes. Sip on hot beverages and be surrounded by twinkling lights and a festive spirit while connecting to the great outdoors. Open to the public and overnight guests
Through January 5: Daily | 5p.m. – 10 p.m. (Adults: $39-$46, Children: $19-plus).
Drive-Through Christmas Lights Tour: Drive through a storybook display of Christmas lights winding through the Big Cedar property. Enjoy hot chocolate, walking s'mores pops, and twinkling souvenirs along the way. Advance reservations are highly recommended, as drive-up availability is limited. November 10-December 30, 5 p.m.-10 p.m. ($35 for cars & SUVs, $60 for mini buses). Open to the public and overnight guests
Holiday Tram Ride: Cozy up with a hot cocoa as you ride through our expanded holiday light display. The twinkling tram tour includes complimentary hot chocolate or cider and a traveling s’more on a stick! Make memories with loved ones surrounded by holiday magic. Tram pick-up and drop-off is at the Swimmin’ Hole Lawn, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. ($25 for overnight guests, $30 for public). November 8-January 5, Open to the public and overnight guests
Ice Skating: Glide across our “all-weather synthetic” ice rink on the Swimmin’ Hole Lawn, surrounded by festive lights and music. Enjoy a quarter-hour lights show after dark, creating a dazzling Winter Wonderland experience. ($15 for overnight guests, $20 for public day guests).
Dates: November 9 – February 8
Weekdays: November 9 – 24 | 4 – 9 p.m.
Weekends: November 9 – 24 | Noon – 9 p.m.
November 25 – December: Daily | Noon – 9 p.m.
January – February 8: Daily | 4 – 9 p.m.
Tree Lighting Ceremony: Gather with friends and family every Saturday from November 16 through December 21 and on Christmas Eve for our classic Tree Lighting Ceremony. Each week, Santa joins the celebration, and one lucky child helps light the Big Cedar Christmas tree. Afterward, children can sit with Santa and receive a special gift. Open to the public and overnight guests
Pre-Show: 4:45 p.m. | Show: 5:15 p.m.
The Art of the Cocktail: Learn the methods and secrets of mixology while exploring the history behind various classic drinks and riffs from our experienced mixologist. Fridays from 3-4 p.m. at Harry’s Cocktail Lounge & Bar. ($54 pp, open to the public and overnight guests).
Shop With an Elf: Let kids step into Santa’s workshop to choose gifts for family members, with the help of Santa’s elves. Each child will enjoy hot chocolate, a walking s’more, and a special wrapping session. ($40 per gift). Check-in at the Adventure Hut in Family Wonderland on the Swimmin’ Hole Lawn. November 8-December 24. Open to the public and overnight guests
Baking with Mrs. Claus: Kids ages 4-12 are invited to bake and decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus and Santa’s elves on Saturdays in November and December. Each child will decorate their own apron and hat and enjoy Christmas songs, stories and games. Every participant receives a cozy critter, water bottle and their crafts to keep. ($90 per child, open to the public and overnight guests).
Special Visits from Holiday Friends: Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves will be spreading holiday cheer throughout Big Cedar Lodge, with photo opportunities, ornament painting, and breakfast with Santa events. Even the Grinch will make appearances at Fun Mountain! Event prices vary, and all are open to the public.
Holiday Crafting: Guests of all ages can enjoy festive DIY classes such as Kids Craft & Play, Paint & Pour, Adult Gingerbread Charcuterie, and a Gingerbread Build Off (Open to the public).
Ugly Sweaters and PJ Parties: Join Santa's elves and the Grinch for fun-filled parties with crafts, snacks and a cozy atmosphere. Kids ages 4-12 can attend the Kids' Club PJ Party or Mrs. Claus’ Ugly Sweater Party. Plus, families can compete in Big Cedar's Bakery Wars, showcasing their best cookie recipes. ($90 per child, open to the public).
Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt: Solve riddles and search for hidden holiday light displays around the resort with friends and family. Fun prizes await the quickest teams. ($17 per person, comfortable footwear encouraged). Open to the public and overnight guests.
12 Days of Christmas Chapel Service: Celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas from December 25 to January 5 with nightly services at Big Cedar Lodge’s Garden Chapel. Reflect on the season and its deeper meaning with loved ones in this serene setting. 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.