Cincinnati/NKY Christmas Event
Nov. 29 – Dec. 30, 2019
Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Bring the family for an unforgettable evening of festive lights, skating, gift shopping, and more at the life-size Noah’s ark during this free NKY/Cincinnati Christmas event!
Find Out MoreFree Christmas Event!
See the life-size ark and gardens illuminated in rainbow-colored lights, an animated show that shares a Christmas message of hope in the Answers Center, and more for just the cost of parking during ChristmasTime at the Ark Encounter at our Cincinnati Christmas event in Northern Kentucky.
Learn MoreHours & Dates
ChristmasTime at the Ark runs every night, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. November 29 through December 30, 2019, in addition to our regular hours. The Ark Encounter is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Encounter the Wonder Show
Watch our incredible short animated show on the massive LED screen inside the Answers Center. This program captures the wonder of Christmas by beginning in Genesis and tracing Christ through the early pages of the Bible, to his birth, life, death, and resurrection.
The Answers Center features the short animated show, Encounter the Wonder, twice each day at the beginning of A Reason to Celebrate Christmas.
A Reason to Celebrate Christmas
Join the Ark’s resident musical group for a Christmas concert with Grammy-nominated Steve Hess & Southern Salvation. Sing along to some of your favorite Christmas carols. The concert concludes with singing Silent Night by candle light.
The Answers Center features A Reason to Celebrate Christmas twice each day at 4:15 and 7:15 p.m.
Brilliant Lights Display
See Noah's Ark and the gardens illuminated in a remarkable sea of rainbow-colored lights! This holiday season, bring the whole family out for an unforgettable evening. (Cincinnati-area)
Glice® Skating Rink
Your whole family will enjoy a winter wonderland in North America’s largest Glice® skating rink near the Answers Center!
Tickets are $5. Price includes skate rental.
Winter Fun at the Zoo
Celebrate Christmas with animals from around the world at the newly expanded Ararat Ridge Zoo. Explore our heated petting zoo, or travel outside and imagine you live in biblical times when you saddle up and ride on a camel.
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!
Seasonal Buffet & Festive Treats
Head in for a hearty, family-affordable buffet at our award-winning Emzara’s Restaurant, or grab a bite at one of our outdoor vendors and specialty snack stands.
More Inside the Ark
Warm up inside and explore the Ark Encounter! Scores of exhibits about the flood, Noah, and the animals are designed to answer your questions about the biblical account of Noah’s Ark. Get your tickets online or at the park entrance.
Ark exhibit admission included with General Admission or Upgrade Your Experience
Soar Through the Night Sky
Fly on the Screaming Eagle Zip Lines for an aerial view of the Ark and the decorative lights! Learn more and book today. Zip line tickets are also available upon arrival.
Ticket purchase required. Limited availability.
Tips for Your Visit
Celebrate Christ’s Birth
Christmas begins in Genesis! Discover why Jesus came and what it means for us today as we celebrate the birth of the Savior. Join us for a spectacular video program, Christmas carols, and a sea of lights, during our free NKY/Cincinnati Christmas event: ChristmasTime at the Ark Encounter for only the cost of parking.
Free Christmas Event!
Upgrade your ChristmasTime experience by touring the Ark's exhibits and grabbing a bite to eat at the popular Emzara's Buffet with exclusive holiday pricing: $32.99 for Adults & Youth; $24.99 for Seniors; $21.99 for Children (ages 5-10).* Special pricing available after 5 p.m.
| Experience | Pricing |
|---|---|
| Brilliant Lights Display | FREE |
| Encounter the Wonder Show | FREE |
| Ararat Ridge Zoo | FREE |
| Christmas Concerts | FREE |
| Parking | $10 per vehicle |
| Exhibit Admission | Included with Upgrade (see pricing above*) |
| Christmas Buffet | Included with Upgrade (see pricing above*) |
| Skating | $5 per guest |
| Camel Rides | $8 per guest |
| Zip Lines (special Christmas course) | $10 per guest |
Prices do not include Williamstown ticket fee or KY sales tax
ChristmasTown at the Creation Museum
Tour the dazzling garden of lights and a live nativity at the Creation Museum during our free annual ChristmasTown event!
Learn More
