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
November 17, 2023 - January 1, 2024
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)
November 23, 2023 - January 7, 2023, 5 - 10 p.m.
Shrine of St. Patrick's Church, 724 N. Main St., Laurie, MO 65037
This religious-themed display started in 1981 and is just up the road from the Enchanted Village of Lights in Laurie. Elegant and beautiful displays focus on the nativity story!
#3 - Osage Beach Holiday Lights in the Park
December 1 - 31, 2023, 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-mo.gov/2221/Holiday-Light-Park
#4 - Versailles Unity Circle of Lights
December 1, 2023 - January 1, 2024
Versailles City Park - 901 Newton St., Versailles, Mo.
Free Admission
Another festive drive-through display in the Lake area. For more information, contact 573-539-5853.
#5 - Celebration Cruises - Christmas on the Lake
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in December.
Cost: $50/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 different Lake area charities.
Book online www.cruiselakeoftheozarks.com or call 573-480-3212.
