One of the Best Christmas Light Displays in Kentucky is Free for Everyone to Enjoy

This morning, around 6 AM, I heard crooning coming from my daughter’s bathroom. She likes to play music while she gets ready for school, so it’s not unusual for our house to sound like a concert hall before sunrise. But this time, it wasn’t Taylor Swift or Olivia Rodrigo. It was Bing Crosby dreaming about a White Christmas.

She must get her love of Christmas music from my mom. I remember hating getting into the gray minivan around the holidays because my mom would drag out her old Christmas cassette tapes and play them on repeat. It took me until my Thirties, and having a kid of my own, to appreciate those classic songs. Don’t tell my mom, but I’ve actually searched for those exact tapes on my streaming apps because there’s just something about those deep cut vintage Christmas tunes that takes me back.

Skipping Thanksgiving and Heading Straight for Christmas in Kentucky

It turns out I’m not alone. More and more people are skipping the Thanksgiving décor and heading straight for Christmas trees right after Halloween. We usually put ours up in mid-November because it’s a lot of work, and I want to enjoy it for more than a few weeks. Plus, Christmas just puts everyone in a better mood. The turkey and leaf decorations don’t quite have the same effect.

Kentucky's BEST Free Light Festival: The Festival of Lights at Patti’s 1880’s Settlement in Grand Rivers, Kentucky

If you’re someone who wants to soak up every bit of Christmas joy, you need to check out the Festival of Lights at Patti’s 1880’s Settlement in Grand Rivers, Kentucky. Patti’s Festival of Lights is a free walk-through display featuring more than 1.5 million lights. It’s so stunning that it was even featured on Netflix’s The Great Christmas Light Fight in 2017.

(Keep scrolling for the FAQ & Tips to get the most out of your trip to Patti's)

Patti's Festival of Lights 2025 Lighting Ceremony

This year’s celebration kicks off on November 7 with the annual lighting ceremony, complete with live performances by Ivan Parker, Minihan Productions, and Reggie LaFaye.

Why Patti’s Is Worth the Drive

If you’ve never been to Patti’s, you’re in for a treat. The entire place feels like stepping into a holiday movie set. The food is out of this world! Don’t leave without trying the famous flower pot bread and strawberry butter.

Add in the charming shops, festive photo spots, live music, and a few holiday surprises, and it’s easy to see why people travel from all over Kentucky and beyond to visit.

Here’s a quick guide to everything you need to know about Patti’s Festival of Lights so you can plan your perfect holiday trip.

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Festival of Lights at Patti’s 1880’s Settlement 2025 Guide

Event Dates:
The celebration runs from November 7, 2025, through January 31, 2026.

Light Display Hours:
The display is open nightly from 4 PM to 10 PM.

Location:
Patti's 1880's Settlement in Grand Rivers, Kentucky

Featured Attractions:

• Over 1.5 million lights
• Musical Christmas productions at the Badgett Playhouse
• Specialty dining at Patti's Restaurant
• Holiday shopping
• Carriage rides
• Visits from Santa and other characters
• Live manger scenes on select weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need reservations to dine in the restaurant during the holidays, and how far in advance can I book?
Yes. November and December are their business months with an average of 4,500 to 5,500 calls daily. Call them at (270) 362-8844 or visit them online to snag a reservation. If your desired day is booked, keep calling back to check for cancellations or try to get a reservation for a weekday or breakfast event. There are also other great dining establishments in the Grand Rivers area, including:

T. Lawson’s Grill
1804 J H O’Bryan Ave, Grand Rivers, KY
Phone: (270) 362-4536
A nearby grill offering burgers, fish tacos, shrimp and grits, and more.

The Wake Club
320 W Commerce Ave, Grand Rivers, KY (at Lighthouse Landing)
Phone: (270) 362-8208
Upscale dining with a lake-view patio and chef-driven menu, perfect for a special evening.

Cabin Pizza
2040 J H O’Bryan Ave, Grand Rivers, KY
Phone: (270) 362-4990
A local favorite for pizza, calzones, and sandwiches in a relaxed setting.

Lite Side Bakery & Cafe
2063 Dover Rd, Grand Rivers, KY
Phone: (270) 362-2111
A cozy spot for homemade baked goods, breakfast, and lunch.

Knoth’s Bar-B-Que
728 US-62, Grand Rivers, KY (Lake City area)
Phone: (270) 362-8667
Known for whole-shoulder barbecue and a classic Kentucky-style sauce.

Do I need a reservation to see the lights?
No. The Festival of Lights display is free and open to everyone.

Are the lights on every night?
Yes. The lights will be illuminated starting the first Friday of November and will remain on nightly from 4 PM to 10 PM through January 31.

Will they be open on Thanksgiving this year?
No. Patti’s will be closed so employees can enjoy the day with family and friends.

What days will Patti's be closed for Christmas?
Patti's Settlement will be closed on December 24, 25, and 26. The Festival of Lights will still be on during those dates.

Is there a charge for Santa?
Visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus is free as part of the Festival of Lights experience. Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras to capture photos.

How Can You Book a Carriage Ride?

Carriage rides fill very quickly and can only be booked through the carriage company by calling 270-243-4365.

Source: Patti's Inn & Suites

LOVE CHRISTMAS? CHECK OUT THIS EVENT!