Illustration of Santa in a knitted red suit in a wooden armchair as two small children show him paper lists by a fireplace (The Spectacular Resort Holiday Lights)

The Spectacular Resort Holiday Lights

The resort transforms into a winter wonderland illuminated by more than a million sparkling holiday lights along the water. Visitors can take in the festive lakefront atmosphere and seasonal displays as part of an annual community tradition.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Tickets

During Santa's Sneak Peek Week, ticket prices are 25% off. For November 26 through January 3: adults $30.50; seniors ages 55+ $29.50; youth ages 6–12 $15; children ages 5 and under free.

Hours

40-minute cruises depart at 4:30 PM, 5:30 PM, 6:30 PM, and 7:30 PM; additional cruise times vary by day.

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown Coeur d’Alene

Parking

Allow time for parking before checking in inside the Resort Plaza Shops; do not go directly to the Boardwalk Marina.

Accessibility

Ramp access is available at the northeast entrance of the Plaza Shops building, with ramps leading down to the boardwalk.

Going?

Location

The Coeur d'Alene Resort · 115 S. 2nd Street, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83814 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with children

Vibe

Festive and magical

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your cruise to allow time for parking, check-in, and boarding.
  • Check in inside the Resort Plaza Shops and wait there for the team to escort guests to the marina.
  • Keep outside food and drinks at home, as they are not permitted aboard.
  • Park strollers in the designated area aboard so seating and walkways remain clear.
  • Consider a private charter if you want an exclusive cruise; reservations are required and availability is limited.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Children aged 5 and under enter the Journey to the North Pole cruise free.
  • Santa’s Sneak Peek Week cruises run November 13–25 and offer 25% off; discounts cannot be combined with other offers.
  • Santa’s Sneak Peek Week gives guests an early look at Santa’s new North Pole.
  • Private North Pole cruises are available for groups, with weekday, weekend and shadow-cruise packages; a hot chocolate bar is an optional add-on.
  • A Lighting Ceremony cruise with fireworks runs on November 27.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?

Yes. Children can meet Santa and his helpers, and Santa calls each child’s name from the Nice List. Children aged five and under travel free.

Should I reserve a cruise in advance?

Yes. Tickets sell out fast, so reserve ahead.

What is included in a Journey to the North Pole cruise?

The cruise includes a lake trip to see the holiday lights and a visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their helpers.

Can I bring food and drinks aboard?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted. Seasonal snacks and drinks are available to purchase onboard.

Is the cruise accessible to wheelchair users and strollers?

The boats are ADA accessible, and the boardwalk is stroller-accessible. Strollers are welcome aboard but must be parked in a designated area.

Browse Christmas in Coeur d'Alene

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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