Miracle on 86th Street: Free Christmas Lights in Urbandale (2026)
Looking for a free Christmas lights stop in the Des Moines metro? Miracle on 86th Street transforms Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park in Urbandale with more than 100,000 holiday lights.
Located next to the Urbandale Public Library, this outdoor display is a place to park, get out, and enjoy a winter walk among the decorations. Bring your camera and dress warmly!
For the 2026–2027 season, the city lists the display dates as November 24 through January 6.
Where is Miracle on 86th Street?
Location: Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park, next to the Urbandale Public Library in Urbandale, Iowa.
Admission: Free.
Official updates: City of Urbandale’s Miracle on 86th Street page
A train, a sleigh, and Christmas photo stops
During our visit, a custom-built wooden train labeled “Jolly Holly Trolley” was a favorite with the kids. They could climb aboard and explore, making it more than a display to simply walk past.
We also found a sleigh beneath a nearby pavilion that made a fun setting for family photos. The photos in this article show a previous season, so individual decorations and their locations may change.
More Christmas lights around Des Moines
- Gingerbread Lane in Ankeny: Explore a neighborhood display built around a Christmas story.
- Ashworth Holiday Forest: Read about a home display in West Des Moines filled with holiday characters and glowing trees.
- Iowa’s best free Christmas lights: Find additional stops in Central Iowa and across the state.
Take a walk through the lights
During our visit, a large decorated tree stood at the center of the display, with hanging ornaments overhead and oversized snowflakes nearby.
Give yourself time to wander rather than heading straight for one photo spot. Walking through the park lets you enjoy the lights from different angles and find your own favorite view.
Special events for 2026
Flip the Switch tree lighting: Tuesday, November 24, at 5:30 p.m. The free opening celebration includes hot cocoa and cookies.
Santa and Reindeer: Friday, December 18, from 4:30–6:30 p.m. Meet Santa and his reindeer, take photos, and enjoy the lights. This event is free, with no registration required.
Check the official event page before leaving home for schedule updates and additional activities.
