It’s the season to be bright and merry, and there are some cheerful holiday lights in Alaska that you need to visit! The Alaska Fairgrounds in Palmer has been dressed up in colorful lights, guaranteed to make this dark winter a little brighter. Pack up the family and experience the magical holiday fun of these drive-thru Christmas lights in Alaska!

The holiday season is upon us, and with the lack of daylight, our nights truly sparkle when towns in Alaska string up their Christmas lights!
Alaska State Fair / Facebook
In fact, Anchorage is even known as the "City of Lights," and it’s no surprise why. There’s nothing more cheering than driving around a dark, wintery town that’s sparkling with festive lights.
Each year, the Alaska State Fairgrounds transforms into a wonderful festive destination filled with some of the most magical Christmas lights in Alaska.
Chris / Google Maps
We’re used to seeing the grounds in all its summer finery, but this year, the road will be plowed because there's a festive holiday light display for all to admire! It’s a great way to get the kids out of the house to enjoy some beautiful scenery.
When you enter the fairgrounds, you’ll drive over a mile through light displays.
Alaska State Fair / Facebook
The wait isn't too long, usually no more than 10 minutes or so, depending on how fast the drivers are going. Get cozy and bring a snack so you can slowly cruise along while enjoying the displays.

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There are 70 different displays, some over 30 feet tall.
Amelia Simeonohoff / Google Maps
They also have a holiday radio station, Reindeer Radio, that has synced the music up to the displays for an extra festive experience. The lights and the music are positively dazzling!
This lovely show typically runs from late November through mid December, but check the website to confirm.
Alaska State Fair / Facebook
Tickets are $20.00 per standard vehicle, with up to 8 occupants per vehicle. A fee of $35 will be charged for vans or limos carrying 9 or more people while buses will be charged $70.
Nanu Sega-Manga / Google Maps
All tickets must be purchased ahead of time online. Tickets are good for one vehicle per visit, and if there’s a specific time you’d like to go, make sure you book early! There are a limited number of slots each hour.
If you're looking for "drive-thru Christmas lights near me" and you want an enchanting evening, make sure to check out this wonderful holiday light display.
Autumn Paris / Google Maps
Bring hot cocoa, and some fun seasonal cookies and treats, and you’ll have a magical day that the kids will love. This is one activity that needs to go to the top of your holiday to-do list!

Check out the 2023 Bright Up The Night promo video by @AlaskaStateFair:

For more information on Bright Up The Night, including tickets and details, be sure to visit the Alaska State Fair website and give the Alaska State Fair Facebook page a follow. Are you planning on seeing these drive-thru Christmas lights in Alaska? Will you take the family out to the Alaska State Fairgrounds this holiday season? Let us know in the comments below!

If you’re looking for more great places to see holiday lights, check out The Christmas Lights Road Trip Through Alaska That’s Nothing Short Of Magical.

Looking for holiday gifts for friends and loved ones? Check out the unique selection in the OnlyInYourState Holiday Gift Guide!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Christmas In Alaska

Melissa M. | November 10, 2023

What are some of the best Christmas towns in Alaska?

The following are among the best Christmas towns in Alaska:

  • North Pole, Alaska: Yes, there is a town named the North Pole in Alaska and if you really want to experience Christmas cheer, this is the place to be. In town, there’s an abundance of Christmas lights along with streets named after iconic aspects of the season (how about a drive down Snowman Lane?). You’ll even see candy-cane-shaped light poles around town. Everything is Christmas here in the North Pole all the time. After all, Santa lives here, right?
  • Anchorage, Alaska: Between ice sculptures and lights galore, holiday magic is in the air in Alaska’s biggest city.
  • Fairbanks, Alaska: This city features numerous Christmas events throughout the season including a holiday bazaar and a Winter Solstice Walk. ‘Tis the season in Fairbanks!

Check out these additional Christmas towns in Alaska.

What are the best holiday light displays in Alaska?

Other than the Bright Up The Night drive-thru display at the Alaska State Fair, there are plenty of other holiday light displays in Alaska to enjoy. Check out the following:

  • Pioneer Park in Fairbanks: Enjoy the Handmade Holiday Market where you can peruse for unique handmade gifts while surrounded by the glow of Christmas lights strung throughout the park.
  • Zoo Lights at the Alaska Zoo in Anchorage: The zoo will be aglow with lights throughout and families can enjoy the festive displays for some holiday fun!

Check out these Alaska holiday light displays.

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