Lights Events
Southern Illinois’ most spectacular holiday program returns!
Immerse yourself in winter wonder with more than 1 million Christmas lights twinkling along a one-mile walking trail through the heart of the Cedarhurst’s 80-acre campus. Roast a s’more, view the art galleries, enjoy special holiday programs, and capture the moments at unique photo opportunities along the way.
2025 Major Sponsors:
Nov. 22 through Dec. 28
November 21 - 22 - 23
Kick off your holiday season with an evening of elegance featuring auctions, entertainment, and festivities, all set among the sparkle of The Lights! The beautifully decorated trees are on display all weekend.
Host a Party!
Organize a get-together with family and friends, an office party, or a client appreciation event! NEW: Rent an IGLOO for your party! We have packages to fit any size gathering in our holiday-decorated venues.
December 5 - 6 - 7
The Artists are here all weekend with unique handmade items, perfect for holiday gifting! The Christmas Market is included with admission to The Lights (Dec. 5-6-7) + Daytime visitors can shop The Market from 11 to 4 (free admission on December 6 & 7).
December 13
Join us for an evening of Frozen Family Fun! Meet and take photos with Elsa, Anna, and Olaf and make a fun holiday family memory! Enjoy a buffet dinner, games, and crafts. After dinner, walk The Lights and enjoy all the Cedarhurst campus has to offer.
Dec 4 - 11 - 18 & 28
Our hope is that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy The Lights! We are offering “free kids admission” nights (with the minimum purchase of one adult ticket for every four children tickets every Thursday in December as well as Dec. 28)
December 4 -11 - 18
Dec 14 & Dec 21
Support The Lights
This year’s community-sponsored feature is moving inside as The Giving Tree – a standout feature this holiday season in the museum’s Beal Corridor. Three different glass ornament designs will adorn the Giving Tree and be gifted to the donors after the 2025 season.
