Holiday Lights at the Lake

Welcome to Holiday Lights at the Lake, a beloved community tradition established in 2021 to bring holiday magic to Iowa City and the surrounding communities. More than just a festive attraction, our event raises support for The Bird House, Hospice Home of Johnson County, helping make a meaningful impact throughout our community. Each holiday season, West Overlook Campground is transformed into a winter wonderland featuring over a mile of dazzling animated light displays. As you travel through our sixth annual celebration, you'll experience sparkling arches, an animated tunnel, festive holiday characters, and beautifully themed scenes designed to delight visitors of all ages. To keep the experience fresh, approximately 25% of our displays are updated each year. Enjoy returning favorites such as the "Farming in Iowa" display featuring "Snowmerican Gothic," a holiday-inspired tribute to Grant Wood's iconic American Gothic, along with dancing polar bears, a spectacular poinsettia forest, and our new 2026 theme, Sweets and Treats. Visitors are also invited to travel down Memory Lane, a heartfelt collection of illuminated trees honoring cherished loved ones and celebrating the enduring spirit of the season. Holiday Lights at the Lake is made possible by dedicated volunteers who work throughout the year to support this cherished tradition. Join us in creating lasting memories while spreading joy, light, and hope throughout the holiday season.