Do overnight guests receive special pricing?
Yes. Overnight guests enjoy discounted admission on select holiday activities. Additionally, select activities such as Elf on the Shelf, the Drive-Thru Light Tour, and the Meet & Greet with Santa are complimentary for overnight guests staying at a Big Cedar Lodge property.
Can I take photos?
Yes! Guests are encouraged to capture and share the holiday magic with personal photos. Professional photography is not allowed. For details on approved professional photography, please visit this link here
Where do we check in for the light tours?
We offer three light tour experiences. Please check in at the correct location based on your ticket:
- Holiday Tram Tour – Check in on the Swimming Hole lawn, located on the main Big Cedar property (next to Registration and Truman Café).
- Self-Guided Light Tour – Check in at the Big Cedar Lodge entrance, 190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, MO.
- Nature at Night Tour – Enter through the Top of the Rock entrance at 190 Top of the Rock Road, then check in at the Cave Trail inside the Top of the Rock Welcome Center.
When does Home for the Holidays take place?
Select holiday activities begin on November 1 and run through the end of December. The full property lights turn on starting November 7 and remain on through the end of December.
Are the activities wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes, most activities are accessible. Please contact our Vacation Planning Team for specific accessibility needs when booking.
Do the activities cost extra?
Yes, some activities have an additional cost. However:
- Overnight guests enjoy discounted admission on select activities.
- Certain activities, like the Meet & Greet with Santa, are exclusively available to overnight guests.
- A number of seasonal activities are complimentary for overnight guests.
See the full Home for the Holidays activity list here.
Is food available during events?
Yes. Many events feature festive treats, hot cocoa, or dining experiences that are available for purchase.
How do I book activities?
Activities can be booked online at or by calling our Vacation Planning Team at (800) 225-6343. Overnight guests can also text our virtual concierge to book.
What is the cancellation policy?
Most holiday activities have a 24-hour cancellation policy. We recommend confirming details at the time of booking.
How many lights are on display?
Over 4 million sparkling lights illuminate our properties during the holiday season.
What are my options for seeing the lights?
Guests can enjoy:
- Holiday Tram Tours
- Private rides in Santa’s Sleigh
- Drive-Thru Light Tour
At Top of the Rock, Nature at Night takes guests through the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail on an electric cart, featuring breathtaking light displays throughout the Ozark Mountains.
Can I see Top of the Rock’s lights at Big Cedar?
No. Big Cedar and Top of the Rock each feature their own unique displays. For the full holiday experience, we recommend visiting both properties.
Do I need reservations for holiday activities?
Yes. Reservations are strongly encouraged, as most activities sell out quickly.
If I have dinner or activity reservations, do I still pay for the Drive-Thru Light Tour?
No. Overnight guests and those with confirmed activity or dining reservations do not pay to enter the property. Non-overnight guests must show proof of a reservation upon arrival.
Are the events family-friendly?
Yes. We offer a mix of family-friendly events as well as select adult-only experiences.
What are the adult-only offerings?
Adult-only activities vary each season but typically include:
- Art of the Cocktail
- Charcuterie & Wood Burning
- Leather Burning
Please visit our website for the full, updated list of adult-only offerings.
What kind of family activities are offered?
We offer a wide variety of holiday activities for all ages. For a complete list, visit our Home for the Holidays landing page or call our Vacation Planning Team at (800) 225-6343.
How should we dress?
Bundle up! Many activities take place outdoors, so warm coats, hats, and gloves are recommended. Weather in the Ozarks can be unpredictable. We also recommend dressing nicely for our fine dining outlets.
