Ames, Iowa (December 2, 2025) — Reiman Gardens is delighted to announce the highly anticipated return of Winter Wonderscape, one of central Iowa’s premier outdoor holiday light experiences, running December 5–27, 2025. This dazzling annual tradition transforms the 17-acre botanical garden into a glowing winter dreamscape filled with immersive light installations, whimsical displays, and festive experiences for all ages.
Visitors will wander through brilliantly illuminated tunnels, choreographed light shows, and interactive features designed to spark wonder and joy. Returning favorites will shine alongside brand-new installations created exclusively for the 2025 season.
2025 Event Highlights
- Brilliant New Light Installations – Explore entirely new themed zones and artistic experiences unique to this year’s show, like the new Candy Land-themed exhibit, featuring life-size board game pieces and a stroll along a lifelike Candy Land board game.
- Interactive & Immersive Displays – Step inside glowing landscapes, pose for luminous photo ops, and engage with playful light features.
- Holiday Concessions & Warm-Up Stops – Enjoy hot cocoa, seasonal treats, and our S’mores Corner where you can purchase kits to make your own S’mores.
- Music, Motion & Magic – Experience choreographed light displays dancing to festive soundtracks.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere – Perfect for date nights, family outings, holiday visitors, and group celebrations.
Reiman Gardens will also host a Holiday Toy Drive to benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs of Story County the night of December 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Visitors who bring a new, unwrapped toy will have the opportunity to meet members of the Iowa State University Women’s Basketball team. A ticket to Winter Wonderscape is required. Those who wish to donate to the Toy Drive but not attend Winter Wonderscape can drop off toys at the front desk of Reiman Gardens during regular business hours from December 6 through December 19.
Event Details (for complete details, visit reimangardens.com/winter-wonderscape)
Dates: December 5–27, 2025
Times: Evening entry windows with timed-ticket admission, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Reiman Gardens, 1407 University Blvd., Ames, Iowa
Tickets: Advance purchase required; timed-entry tickets available at reimangardens.com
Parking: Free on-site parking