Lake of the Ozarks is glowing again with holiday traditions, from drive-thru light displays to festive parades. So when you're looking for a little Christmas Spirit, here's where to find must-see lights and celebrations this season.
If there are other public light displays or parades that should be included, email editor@lakeexpo.com.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Festival of Lights — National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church (Laurie)
Runs nightly from Thanksgiving evening through January 4, 5–10 p.m.
This longtime Lake tradition, first created by Fr. Fred Barnett, offers a peaceful drive-thru experience plus the option to park, walk, and enjoy the Shrine grounds. Friday nights in December include free hot cocoa and candy canes from 6–8 p.m. A special community event, “O Holy Night,” takes place December 7.
Enchanted Village of Lights — Laurie Fairgrounds
Open nightly Nov. 21 to Jan. 1. Hours run 5–9 p.m. Sunday–Thursday and 5–10 p.m. Friday–Saturday, plus Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
This is Central Missouri’s largest drive-thru light display, spanning 27 acres with more than 250 illuminated scenes. New this year: a walk-through section with food vendors, hot chocolate, and select nights offering carriage rides.
Unity Circle of Lights — Versailles City Park
Open nightly from dusk to midnight through January 1.
The City of Versailles is lighting up its park for the Unity Circle of Lights, a free holiday display. Located at Highways 5 and 52, the event features up to 40 lighted displays, including animated scenes, all centered around the park’s “Unity Circle” monument.
CHRISTMAS PARADES
Reverse Christmas Parade — Camdenton
Dec. 5, 6:30–8 p.m.
A glowing twist on tradition, the floats stay parked while spectators drive by along N. Business Route 5. The parade will take place at 6:30 p.m., right after the Christmas tree lighting on the Square. The setup allows for better visibility, safer viewing, and a weather-proof experience from inside your vehicle!
Christmas Parade — Downtown Eldon
Dec. 6, 5:30 p.m.
This dusk parade travels from Downtown Eldon to Rock Island Park. Hosted by the City of Eldon, the Chamber, the Christmas Committee, and Downtown Eldon businesses, the event encourages families to shop and dine local while enjoying the celebration.
Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Parade — Bagnell Dam Strip
Dec. 13, 1 p.m.
Now in its 41st year, this parade takes on a “Lake of the Ozarks Goes Hollywood” theme, led by the Marine Corps League Honor Guard. Floats, bands, Shriners, cars, horses and more will travel from the HH/Bagnell Dam Blvd. junction down to the Dam. After the parade, families can meet Santa at Luby’s Plaza.
