Matt Schrimpf
https://www.luxurylakehome.com/blog/holiday-happenings-around-lake-of-the-ozarks

Holiday Happenings Around Lake of the Ozarks

Posted By: Matt Schrimpf In:
Date: Thu, Dec 4th 2025 10:59 am

Grab your coats and bundle up to check out some of the most beloved holiday traditions at the Lake - from dazzling drive-thru light displays to spirited parades.  If you're searching for some holiday cheer, here are the areas most festive events happening this season.

LIGHT SHOWS

Festival of Lights — National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church (Laurie)
Nightly from Thanksgiving through January 4, 5–10 p.m.

Come experience a serene drive-thru display that also offers the option to park and casually stroll the beautiful Shrine grounds. This longstanding Lake tradition founded by Fr. Fred Barnett also serves hot cocoa and candy canes to visitors every Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. Plus, don't miss "O Holy Night," a special community celebration happening on Sunday, December 7th. 

Enchanted Village of Lights — Laurie Fairgrounds
Open nightly November 21–January 1 | 5–9 p.m. Sunday–Thursday | 5–10 p.m. Friday–Saturday, plus Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day

Central Missouri's largest drive-thru light display stretches across 27 acres with over 250 dazzling scenes. New this season is a walk-through area with food vendors, hot chocolate, and even select evenings that offer charming carriage rides. 

Unity Circle of Lights — Versailles City Park
Open nightly from dusk to midnight through January 1.

The park is being lit up by the City of Versailles with nearly 40 lighted displays centered around the park's "Unity Circle" monument. Located at Hwy 5 and 52, The Unity Circle of Lights is a free event.    

CHRISTMAS PARADES 

Reverse Christmas Parade - Camdenton

Friday, December 5th, 6:30-8 p.m.

Tradition with a twist, this "reverse" parade keeps the floats parked while spectators can drive along N Business Rt. 5. The event begins at 6:30 p.m., immediately following the lighting of the Christmas tree on the Square.  This will allow for optimal visibility, safer viewing, and warmth and comfort from your vehicle. 

Christmas Parade - Downtown Eldon

Saturday, December 6th, 5:30 p.m. 

This parade at dusk spans from Downtown Eldon to Rock Island Park.  This event is hosted by Downtown Eldon businesses, the City of Eldon, and the Christmas committee and it's encouraged for spectators to dine and shop local while enjoying the parade. 

Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Parade - Bagnell Dam Strip

Saturday, December 13, 1 p.m. 

Now entering its 41st year, this parade has a "The Lake Goes Hollywood" theme, which is headed by the Marine Corps League Honor Guard.  Everything from floats, bands, cars, and more will travel from the top of HH down through the Dam.  After the parade, there will be a chance to meet Santa at Luby's Plaza.