There’s something truly magical about Christmas at Big Cedar Lodge, located just 8 miles south of Branson, Mo. Named #1 America’s Best Hotels for the Holidays by USA TODAY, the resort transforms into a holiday wonderland each year. Nestled among the rolling Ozark hills and sparkling Table Rock Lake, you’ll find over 4 million twinkling lights, cozy cabins, and Christmas activities that create memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a holiday retreat with friends, Big Cedar Lodge brings the season to life like nowhere else.
Here are the top 10 things to do this Christmas
1. Experience the New Real Ice Rink and Tube Sledding Hill
Glide into the holidays at Big Cedar Lodge’s brand-new ice rink and tubing hill, surrounded by beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Fun for all ages, these winter activities create storybook memories under the stars.
2. Holiday Light Tours
Celebrate the season with dazzling lights in multiple ways:
- Holiday Tram Tour: Snuggle up on the twinkling tram while taking in panoramic views of Table Rock Lake, festive music, and historic sites.
- Private Sleigh Ride Light Tour: Cozy up with blankets and hot chocolate or cider in a festive Santa sleigh for a magical experience for couples or families.
- Drive Through Christmas Light Tour: Enjoy the magic of Christmas from the comfort of your car with more lights than ever before.
- Nature at Night on the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail: Wander illuminated trails featuring waterfalls, bridges, and the spectacular Bat Bar cave for a holiday experience in the Ozarks like no other.
3. Breakfast with Santa
Have breakfast with Santa at The Worman House! Snap a photo with St. Nick and enjoy an omelet station, festive cupcake wall, Belgian waffles, French toast, and more. plus, say hello to Mrs. Claus and the elves.
4. Attend a Seasonal Workshop at Fun Mountain
Get hands-on with holiday fun: decorate stockings, build gingerbread houses, or join the Elves Winter Workshop to create a Big Cedar-themed ornament. Perfect for families, friends, or anyone wanting a festive keepsake.
5. Holiday Cocktails at Harry’s Cocktail Lounge & Bar
Located on the lower level of the historic Worman House, Harry’s Cocktail Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to toast the season. Enjoy handcrafted holiday cocktails in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Harry’s menu pairs perfectly with the lodge’s sparkling holiday ambiance.
6. World-Class Dining Experiences
Savor seasonal flavors from the Big Cedar Culinary Team, whether enjoying a holiday brunch, themed dinner, or specialty treats. Each meal is a celebration of the season’s tastes and traditions.
7. Cozy Cabin Stays
After a day of holiday fun, retreat to a rustic yet elegant cabin. Fireplaces, scenic views, and thoughtful seasonal touches make every evening magical.
8. Festive In-Room Visits
- Elves Sweet Surprise | In Room Scavenger Hunt: Make your stay at Big Cedar Lodge even more magical. Once you book, we’ll reach out the week of your arrival to get your room number. Then, our Elves will secretly set up a festive scavenger hunt in your room, complete with a special letter, hidden clues, and 4 custom cookies. Want more treats? Add extra cookies for just $5 each.
- Elf Visits: The elves have made a special trip from the North Pole all the way to the Ozarks to visit your little ones and spread holiday cheer. The elves love to read bedtime stories, collect letters to Santa, and deliver special Big Cedar stockings full of goodies! The elves also deliver a book they sign and leave one copy per family.
- Santa Visits: Create memories that will last a lifetime with a visit from the one and only Santa Claus! Santa will come to your room to visit with your child, take pictures and gather any letters they have written to him. Santa will also bring a special gift for your child to keep!
9. Sip Hot Cocoa by the Fire on Swimmin’ Hole Lawn
Nothing says Christmas like a warm cup of cocoa while gathered around the campfire on Swimmin’ Hole Lawn. Enjoy the glow of twinkling lights, the scent of roasting marshmallows, and the joy of the season with family and friends.
10. Family-Friendly Holiday Fun & Kids’ Club Experiences
From PJ parties and holiday baking with Mrs. Claus to the 12 Days Scavenger Hunt and Minute to Win It games, children and families can immerse themselves in festive adventures. Glow-in-the-dark crafts and storytelling create magical memories that last a lifetime.
Christmas at Big Cedar Lodge is filled with magic, laughter, and moments you’ll treasure forever. From the sparkling lights and world-class dining to cozy cabin evenings and playful family experiences, every detail is designed to bring the holiday spirit alive. Plan your stay today and make this Christmas truly unforgettable at Big Cedar Lodge
