ChristmasTime at the Ark Encounter Returns November 26, 2021!

Mark your calendar and start making plans to visit our sixth annual ChristmasTime at the Ark Encounter! This year’s event will run Wednesday through Sunday evenings from November 26 through December 19, 2021, and then every evening from December 20–30 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), running from 5–8:30 p.m. each night.

Here’s what you will experience when you join us to celebrate this special time of the year.

Catch the Rainbow-Colored Ark and Grounds

The view during ChristmasTime is remarkably photogenic as you take in our life-size Noah’s Ark, the topiaries, Ararat Ridge Zoo, and the Rainbow Gardens illuminated in a stunning sea of rainbow-colored lights.

Sing Along with Southern Salvation

Join the Ark’s resident musical group for Joy!, a Christmas concert with Southern Salvation inside the Answers Center at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. (schedule subject to change). Sing along to some of your favorite Christmas carols with this Grammy-nominated trio.

Visit Ararat Ridge Zoo Animals

You can also explore the Ararat Ridge Zoo, kangaroo walkabout, and petting area all lit up in festive lights, and you can even ride on a camel (weather permitting)!

Shop for Unique Christmas Gifts

Looking for that perfect, one-of-a-kind gift? Stop by our extensive fair-trade market and the Ark Encounter gift shop for a selection of handmade gifts from all over the world as well as apparel, stuffed animals, books, DVDs, toys, and much more. We have something for everyone on your list!

Travel Back in Time

Get seated in the Truth Traveler time machine and journey back to the time of Noah in our immersive virtual reality experience, A Flood of Reality. Pod, the lovable robot, will be your guide as you witness the building of Noah’s ark, experience the flood, venture inside the ark with the animals, and more—including some exciting surprises along the way!

Tickets can be purchased only onsite at the Ark Encounter’s Truth Traveler building. Due to high demand, we recommend you purchase your tickets and secure a time for your VR experience soon after your arrival.

Soar Through the Sky

Fly on the Screaming Eagle Zip Lines for an aerial view of the Ark and the decorative lights! You can even book your adventure today. Zip line tickets are also available upon arrival (first come, first served).

Enjoy Seasonal Treats and Tasty Food

Head in for a hearty, family-affordable turkey or ham dinner at our award-winning Emzara’s Buffet (open until 7 p.m. each night), or grab a bite at one of our outdoor vendors and specialty snack stands.

Double Your Fun!

Continue celebrating this special time of the year with a trip to our sister attraction for ChristmasTown at the Creation Museum! Catch a glimpse of the amazing events that surrounded our Savior’s birth with our live nativity, and take a spin on the Glice® skating rink. After that, stay toasty with a cup of hot chocolate as you walk through our botanical gardens immersed in breathtaking light displays.

Save the date, and start making your plans today to bring the whole family out for an unforgettable holiday evening! Be sure to share your favorite ChristmasTime at the Ark Encounter photos with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.