Holiday Fun: Minnesota’s Longest Drive-Thru Christmas Lights Show

The holidays are coming up fast, and while it’s easy to get swept up in shopping, decorating, and checking off your to-do list, it’s important to remember what truly matters. You need to make some memories with your loved ones.

For more than ten years, my family has made it a tradition to visit Minnesota’s longest drive-thru Christmas light show. It’s something we look forward to every season. We usually go on the Saturday after Thanksgiving to see the beautiful lights and visit with Santa.

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Minnesota's Longest Drive-Thru Christmas Light Show

Here are some photos of this spectacular holiday light show, and below you'll find all of the info you need to know to make this one of your family's favorite holiday traditions.

Minnesota’s Longest Drive-Thru Light Show

The Kiwanis Holiday Light Display is free, but cash and non-perishable food donations are accepted. All money collected is given to area non-profits. Since opening in 2012 the event has raised nearly $800,000 for local charities.

Gallery Credit: troy dunken

Plan Your Visit: Minnesota’s Longest Drive-Thru Christmas Light Show in Mankato

The Kiwanis Holiday Lights experience is completely free (they do accept donations for local charities, so consider bringing canned goods or a few dollars to give). See the dates and hours below.

This attraction features millions of sparkling lights, along with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and even live reindeer. Last year, a holiday train was added, giving visitors a magical 20-minute ride around the park.

Train rides run Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings (weather permitting) from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, with tickets available for $5 per person ages 10 and up, while children 9 and under ride free with a paying adult.