Illustration of a couple and children walking through a tunnel of twinkling white lights in the snow (Merry-N-County Christmas Holiday Lights)
Christmas Lights

Merry-N-County Christmas Holiday Lights

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Experience the enchantment of Merry-N-County Christmas Holiday Lights, a spectacular drive-through display at Marion County Park. Tune into 95.3 FM for festive Christmas music as you journey through the illuminated park. Special mailboxes are available for letters to Santa, ensuring your wishes reach the North Pole. Admission is by free will donation, with credit cards accepted.

All ages $

Location

Marion County Park · 306 Willetts Drive, Knoxville, IA Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, and individuals seeking festive holiday cheer

Vibe

Festive, community-oriented, magical

Energy Level

Low (drive-through)

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (3/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low (drive-through, but extreme weather may impact enjoyment)

Tips & Advice

  • Tune your radio to 95.3 FM while driving through the lights for a curated Christmas music experience that enhances the visual display.
  • Bring your letters to Santa and be sure to drop them in the special mailbox provided for a direct route to the North Pole.
  • Consider visiting on a weeknight for a potentially less crowded experience, though the extended hours offer flexibility.
  • While admission is free will, credit cards are accepted, making it easy to contribute to this community event.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go; the drive-through nature makes it enjoyable even in light rain or snow.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Extended hours to include Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
  • Direct access mailboxes for letters to Santa
  • Christmas music broadcast on 95.3 FM

Links & Contact

Run by Marion County Development Commission

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

What are the exact dates and times for the Merry-N-County Christmas Holiday Lights?

The lights are open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from November 19 to December 19, 2026. They are also available on December 20, 21, 22, and 23, 2026. Hours are from 6 to 8 PM nightly. Notably, the display is extended to include Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Is there an admission fee for the holiday lights display?

Admission is by free will donation. Credit cards are accepted for those who wish to contribute.

Where is the Merry-N-County Christmas Holiday Lights located?

The event is held at Marion County Park, located at 306 Willetts Drive in Knoxville, IA.

Can I listen to music while viewing the lights?

Yes, you can tune into KNIA/KRLS 95.3 FM for Christmas music that complements the light display.

Is there an opportunity to send letters to Santa?

Absolutely! Special mailboxes are available for you to drop off letters to Santa, ensuring they reach the North Pole directly.

Browse Christmas in Des Moines

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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