5 Ways To Enjoy Altoona Christmas Lights

Altoona, Iowa, transforms into a winter wonderland every holiday season with its magical Christmas lights display. The Altoona Christmas Lights event has become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike, offering a festive atmosphere that's perfect for families, couples, and friends. Here are five ways to enjoy the Altoona Christmas Lights:

1. Take a Drive-Through Tour

One of the best ways to experience the Altoona Christmas Lights is by taking a drive-through tour. The display features over 100,000 lights, intricately designed and synchronized to music. The drive-through route takes you through a scenic path, allowing you to enjoy the lights from the comfort of your own vehicle. You can tune into a special radio station to enjoy the music and narration that accompanies the light display.

Tips for a Smooth Drive-Through Experience

• Arrive early to avoid long lines and traffic congestion.
• Use your vehicle's low-beam headlights to reduce glare from the lights.
• Keep your radio tuned to the designated station to enhance the experience.
• Be patient and courteous to other drivers, and follow the designated route.

2. Walk-Through Tours

If you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider taking a walk-through tour of the Altoona Christmas Lights. This allows you to get up close and personal with the displays, taking in the intricate details and festive atmosphere. You can stroll along the designated walking path, enjoying the sights and sounds of the season.

Tips for a Enjoyable Walk-Through Experience

• Wear comfortable shoes and dress warmly, as the walk-through tour can take around 30-45 minutes.
• Bring a camera to capture memories of your visit.
• Take your time and enjoy the displays, but be mindful of other visitors and follow the designated path.

3. Special Events and Activities

Throughout the holiday season, the Altoona Christmas Lights event hosts various special events and activities. These may include visits with Santa, holiday craft workshops, and live music performances. Be sure to check the event calendar to plan your visit around these activities.

Some Popular Special Events

• Santa's Workshop: Meet Santa and his elves, and enjoy holiday crafts and activities.
• Holiday Concerts: Enjoy live music performances by local choirs and musicians.
• Reindeer Games: Participate in festive games and activities, such as a holiday-themed scavenger hunt.

4. Food and Beverage Options

The Altoona Christmas Lights event offers a variety of food and beverage options to keep you warm and cozy during your visit. You can enjoy classic holiday treats, such as hot chocolate and cookies, or indulge in more substantial meals, like burgers and sandwiches.

Some Popular Food and Beverage Options

• Hot Cocoa Bar: Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa, topped with marshmallows and whipped cream.
• Holiday Cookies: Enjoy a variety of festive cookies, including sugar cookies, gingerbread men, and snickerdoodles.
• Local Vendors: Support local businesses and artisans by purchasing unique gifts and treats.

5. Make it a Family Tradition

The Altoona Christmas Lights event is a wonderful way to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Make it a family tradition by visiting every year, and enjoy the festive atmosphere and activities together.

Tips for Making it a Family Tradition

• Make it a special occasion by dressing up in holiday attire.
• Bring along a favorite holiday treat or snack to enjoy during the visit.
• Take photos and create a holiday album or scrapbook to commemorate your visits.

We hope you've enjoyed this article on the Altoona Christmas Lights! Whether you're a local or just visiting, this event is a must-see during the holiday season. Share your favorite memories and photos with us in the comments below!