FAQs

Q: What are the operating hours for HolidayLights?
A: Sunday – Thursday: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM (Parking permitted at 5:00 PM, gates open at 5:30 PM, close at 8:30 PM)
Friday and Saturday: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM (Parking permitted at 5:00 PM, gates open at 5:30 PM, close at 9:30 PM)

Q: What’s new this year at HolidayLights?
A: We’re excited to introduce timed ticketing to enhance your experience and help manage crowds! On Fridays and Saturdays, you’ll select a specific time slot when purchasing your tickets. Just choose the time that works best for you, and enjoy a smoother entry process. Simply arrive during your chosen time window, and you’ll breeze through the gates just like with any other ticket!

Q: What can I expect at HolidayLights?
A:

• Walk through millions of artistic and creative light displays in various holiday-themed lands.
• Ride the Candy Cane Express Train and explore our western town.
• Meet Santa at Santa’s Workshop.
• Enjoy food from Teen Challenge at various locations throughout CALM.
• Visit ThePines Christmas Tree Farm and pick out a Christmas tree.
• Shop at ThePines Market.
• Make holiday crafts at ThePines Creation Stations.

Q: When can we meet Santa?
A: Santa is available nightly until December 24, starting at 6:00 PM.

• Sunday – Thursday: 6:00 PM – 8:45 PM
• Friday and Saturday: 6:00 PM – 9:45 PM (Note: Santa’s house will remain open post-Christmas, but Santa will be on vacation.)

Q: What is included in the ticket price?
A: Tickets include entry to HolidayLights, unlimited train rides, meet and greet with Santa, crafts at ThePines Creation Stations, and access to millions of lights.

Q: Are there additional costs for food and other items?
A: Yes, the purchase of food and beverages from Teen Challenge, items from ThePines Market, and Christmas trees are additional costs and benefit Teen Challenge and CALM.

Q: Do you offer group rate tickets?
A: Yes! For those that will be purchasing 50 tickets or more, the group rate will be $12 per person. Please reach out to Elizabeth Graff by emailing elgraff@kern.org to purchase group tickets.

Give the gift of HolidayLights to your loved ones! Please visit our gift store during normal business hours (Tuesday through Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), to purchase a gift certificate. Gift certificates may be redeemed on any night throughout the duration of HolidayLights (November 30 to January 4, except Christmas) and will not require an additional online purchase.

Q: How do I enter HolidayLights at CALM?
A: Entry is via Old Alfred Harrell Hwy at the turn onto Lake Ming Road. Follow signs for easy access into CALM’s parking lot. The traditional entry gate will be EXIT only to facilitate traffic flow.

Q: Is CALM a smoke-free facility?
A: Yes, CALM is a smoke and drug-free facility. No smoking or vaping is permitted inside the grounds of CALM.

Q: Can I bring my pet to HolidayLights?
A: No pets are allowed for the safety of our zoo animals and guests. Service Animals are allowed following the ADA guidelines. Emotional Support Animals and animals in backpacks/carriers are not permitted. CALM reserves the right to ask guests whose service animal is causing a disruption to leave.

Q: Who helps make HolidayLights possible?
A: The event is made possible with the help of our partner agency, Teen Challenge of Kern County, and dozens of volunteers each night. Please follow their guidance to ensure your safety during the event. Additionally, we require over a dozen volunteers from our community who help guests find their way around, assist at booths, and so much more.

Q: How can I volunteer?
A: If you want to help us during HolidayLights, simply visit Volunteer Portal and follow the directions. If you require signatures for community service, event supervisors can sign at the end of your shift.

Q: How does my ticket purchase support CALM?
A: Each ticket purchased directly supports the CALM Foundation and helps us help wildlife.

Q: Who can I contact for more information?
A: For more information, please visit our website or contact CALM directly. Call us at 661-546-8940 during business hours which are Tuesday – Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For after hours questions, you may call or text 661-524-7416.