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: Will there be timed ticketing on the weekends?
A: Yes! We will be bringing back 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: Will HolidayLights be a drive through or walk through?
A: HolidayLights has returned to it’s traditional walk through experience and will no longer offer the drive through.

Q: What can I expect at HolidayLights?
A: Experience the magic of the holidays as you walk through millions of artistic and creative light displays spread across various festive lands at HolidayLights at CALM. Hop aboard the Candy Cane Express Train for a ride through the illuminated western town, and don’t miss your chance to meet Santa at Santa’s Workshop, available through December 24. Throughout the event, enjoy delicious food and treats from Teen Challenge at multiple locations. Be sure to visit ThePines Christmas Tree Farm to select the perfect Christmas tree, shop for unique gifts and seasonal items at ThePines Market and get creative with complimentary holiday crafts at ThePines Creation Stations.

Q: When can we meet Santa?
A: Santa is available nightly until December 24, starting at 5:45 PM.

• Sunday – Thursday: 5:45 PM – 8:45 PM
• Friday and Saturday: 5:45 PM – 9:45 PM (Note: Santa’s house will remain open post-Christmas, but Santa will be on vacation.)

Q: Will you have your New Year’s Eve Extravaganza again?
A: Yes! We will be hosting our 2nd Annual New Years Eve Extravaganza featuring Mento Buru. It is a special event and tickets for it can be found HERE. We will celebrate the ball drop at midnight East Coast time! Don’t miss out!

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 Erika Thorn by emailing erthorn@kern.org to purchase group tickets.

Q:Do you offer refunds?
A: No. We do not offer refunds for this fundraiser. However, if you are unable to attend on the night you purchase tickets for, we would be happy to exchange them for a different night. Please call or text 661-524-7416 with your name, confirmation number, and the date you would like to exchange your tickets too. You will receive an updated confirmation email once processed.

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 can only be purchased in person, not online at this time. Gift certificates are valid for admission only and may be redeemed on any night throughout the duration of HolidayLights (November 29 to January 3, except Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve due to our special event) and will not require an additional online purchase or pre-reservations.

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.