What’s New for This Year’s ChristmasTime at the Ark Encounter?

We are a couple weeks away from kicking off this year’s ChristmasTime at the Ark Encounter! Beginning the day after Thanksgiving, this special event will run from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., November 29, 2024–January 4, 2025, Tuesday through Saturday on select days.

In addition to the beautiful light displays guests have come to love, we also have a few new features for this year’s event.

Laser Light Show on the Life-Size Noah’s Ark

Enjoy a laser show on the side of our life-size Noah’s Ark all night long. Then, watch Light in the Darkness at select times during the evening. This five-minute laser light show features a stunning look at the life of Jesus. From the angel appearing to Mary to a brief look at big moments in Jesus’ life and ministry, this moving presentation takes us through the true Christmas story and reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world. To him be the glory.

Special Concerts and Programs

This year we have several concerts and programs lined up for your enjoyment!

Keith & Kristyn Getty: An Irish Christmas

On Thursday, December 5, 2024, the gifted hymn-writing duo Keith and Kristyn Getty return to the Ark for An Irish Christmas.* This event features new Christmas music from the Gettys, along with classic carols you know and love, all performed with their signature Irish style. You and your family will love it! This event is ticketed, and a limited number of seats are available, so be sure to get your tickets soon to celebrate the birth of the Savior with the Gettys.

Bethlehem’s Cry

Join us Friday, December 6, 2024, as our Answers Academy students present to you Bethlehem’s Cry. This heart-wrenching drama connects the babe in the manger to the hope of the cross by following the story of a young girl through her grief and suffering that began in Bethlehem.

A Jazzy Little Christmas Tour: Ernie Haase & Signature Sound with TrueSong and Ken Ham

Abraham Productions presents Ernie Haase & Signature Sound performing selections from their A Jazzy Little Christmas Tour on Saturday, December 7, 2024. This program includes a performance by the Ark Encounter's Dove Award-nominated resident artists—TrueSong—and an encouraging message by Answers in Genesis Founder and CEO, Ken Ham.

Living History Christmas Event

Our Christmas Living History weekend (December 13–14, 2024) is an exciting event that will focus on the historical and cultural background of Christ’s birth and the Christmas season. Topics range from Hanukkah and the Maccabean revolt to the everyday lives of women like Mary and Elizabeth. Come engage with reenactors and learn about life in first century Israel!

True Christmas

Then, on December 14, 2024, join us again at the Ark Encounter’s Answers Center for the Creation Choir and Orchestra’s debut performance of True Christmas—a beautiful musical tribute to Christ’s birth—featuring a full symphony orchestra, a choir, and gifted vocalists. This one-night-only event is free—you only pay for parking.

A Jazzy Little Christmas Tour: Karen Peck & New River with TrueSong and Ray Flynn

Join us after Christmas as Abraham Productions presents Karen Peck & New River bringing both Christmas classics and new music to the stage, making this an exciting Christmas concert you don't want to miss on Saturday, December 28, 2024! This program includes a performance by the Ark Encounter's Dove Award-nominated resident artists—TrueSong—and an encouraging message by Ray Flynn.

Experience All ChristmasTime Has to Offer

Not only will your family enjoy these new additions to ChristmasTime at the Ark Encounter, you’ll also love seeing the grounds lit up in multicolored lights; enjoy a hearty, family-affordable, holiday buffet meal inside Emzara’s Buffet (open until 7:30 p.m.); shop for unique gifts; take a ride on our indoor carousel; learn about our animals in the Ararat Ridge Zoo; and so much more!

And be sure to grab your children a free scavenger hunt before you head into the gardens! Track down all of our topiaries and receive a prize upon completion. Your family will also be able to take a free family devotional home as well.

Continue Celebrating at the Creation Museum

Celebrate this special time of the year with a trip to ChristmasTown at the Creation Museum as well! Tour the dazzling garden of lights, reflect on the true meaning of the season at our live nativity, check out the brand-new conservatory, enjoy a special holiday dinner, do some unique gift shopping, and more during this annual Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Christmas experience!

Start planning your Christmas visit to the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum today!

*Additional ticket purchase required.