It’s that time of year: communities at Lake of the Ozarks are growing merry and bright, for Christmas, New Years, and December holidays. From one-day events to the largest light display in central Missouri, here’s where to see the holiday light displays around the Lake this year.

Holiday Lights at the Lake

#1 - Enchanted Village of Lights

Nov. 20 – Jan. 3

269 Fairgrounds Drive, Laurie, Mo. 65037

Free Admission, Donations Accepted

This is the largest light display at the Lake, by far. If you’re on the Osage Beach/Lake Ozark side of the Lake, it’s a bit of a drive, but well-worth it! Allow about 20 minutes to drive through. The 27-acre park draws tens of thousands of visitors every year.

#2 - Festival of Lights - The National Shrine of Mary (St. Patrick Catholic Church)

Open every evening from Thanksgiving evening to Jan. 9 The Feast of the Baptism of Jesus, starting 6 p.m.

176 Marian Drive, Laurie, Mo. 65037

Free Admission

This religious-themed/nativity-focused display is just up the road from the Enchanted Village of Lights in Laurie. Elegant and beautiful displays tell the nativity story

#3 - Osage Beach Holiday Lights in the Park

Nov 29 – Dec. 31, 5-9 p.m.

Osage Beach City Park - 950 Hatchery Rd, Osage Beach, Mo. 65065

Free Admission

Fun and festive themes abound at the annual light display in Osage Beach City Park. This is a 5-10 minute drive-through, great for listening to Christmas music and getting in the holiday spirit. Kids especially love the whimsical displays. Sponsorship available here: https://osagebeach.recdesk.com/Community/Program

#4 - Versailles Unity Circle of Lights

Open Nov. 26 through New Years Eve

901 Newton St., Versailles, Mo.

Free Admission

Another festive drive-through display in the Lake area. The official lighting ceremony/event is the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

David Vogt: 573-539-5853

#5 - Celebration Cruises Christmas on the Lake

Kickoff event Friday, Nov. 26, then every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday of December.

Cost: $35/person

A very “Lake of the Ozarks” way to celebrate the holidays! This two-hour, six-mile cruise offers beautiful views of decorated docks and lake houses, aboard a brightly adorned cruise yacht. Appetizers, entertainment, and a cash bar. Proceeds support 11 different Lake area charities.

Book online www.cruiselakeoftheozarks.com or call 573-480-3212