If you’re looking for a sure-fire way to get into the spirit this season, we’ve got you covered. Oneida County’s lively holiday light shows are sure to impress, and you’ll be thinking of hot cocoa, reindeer, and presents in no time. Here are a few displays to put on your list.
(Dates shown are for 2025 events.)
Lights of the Northwoods, Rhinelander
Head to Hodag Country in the middle of Oneida County to experience this fun annual attraction that features nightly light displays, special activities (including a visit from Santa), and a fireworks show on New Year’s Day. The show starts on December 1, and the lights are on from 5 to 9pm every night at Hodag Park in Rhinelander. Monetary donations are accepted and benefit local food pantries and participating non-profits, in addition to supporting the light show and assisting with year-round maintenance at the park.
A Christmas Wonderland, Harshaw
This festive light show takes place on the grounds of Rondele Ranch, an event venue & lodging property that’s 20 minutes from Rhinelander, Minocqua, and Tomahawk. Visitors are awed by more than a million lights that illuminate holiday displays across the 700-acre site. Beginning November 28, the display is open to walking tours from 5 to 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays and driving tours from 5 to 8pm on Sundays and Tuesdays throughout December.
Festival of Lights, Three Lakes
The annual Festival of Lights—celebrating its 30th anniversary this year—takes place on November 28 and features holiday music, a visit from Santa, and, of course, the lighting of the tree and decorations at Cy Williams Park in downtown Three Lakes. The festival also includes horse-drawn sleigh rides and food & refreshments.
