Life-size Candy Land Adds Magic to Winter Wonderscape

A Magical Holiday Experience at Reiman Gardens

This holiday season, Reiman Gardens is offering a unique and enchanting experience with its Winter Wonderscape exhibit. Inspired by a beloved family board game, the event features a life-size Candy Land-themed display that brings the whimsical world of the classic game to life. Visitors can take a stroll along a massive, illuminated Candy Land board game while exploring a variety of other festive installations.

Winter Wonderscape has returned for 2025 and promises to be more magical than ever. With over 150,000 lights, the exhibit transforms the gardens into a dazzling wonderland. Guests will walk through brilliantly illuminated tunnels, enjoy choreographed light shows, and interact with various features designed to spark joy and wonder. The exhibit also includes returning favorites alongside new installations created specifically for this year’s season.

In addition to the light displays, visitors can enjoy seasonal treats such as hot cocoa and Reiman Gardens’ S’mores Corner, where they can purchase kits to make their own s’mores. The event will run from 5 to 9 p.m. on December 11-12, 18-23, and 26-27. Advanced tickets with timed entry are required and can be purchased online.

RG Express Train: A Tradition That Never Fades

Another popular attraction at Reiman Gardens is the RG Express Train, which has been a cherished holiday tradition for over a decade. This garden-scale train makes its way through the Hughes Conservatory, captivating visitors with its charming design and intricate details.

First unveiled in 2015, the train has become a favorite among guests each holiday season. Created by Applied Imagination, a Kentucky-based company known for blending botanical design with architecture, the exhibit features replicas of several locally significant landmarks, including Beardshear Hall and the Campanile. These recreations were made using natural materials like mushroom caps, bark, and berries, adding an extra layer of authenticity.

The RG Express Train exhibit is open daily during Reiman Gardens' normal hours through January 18. However, it is closed during the Winter Wonderscape light show due to capacity limitations. Admission to the train display is included with regular garden entry.

Holiday Concerts and Art Sales

Ames is also hosting a variety of holiday events throughout the season. One such event is the holiday concert by the Ames Chamber Artists, under the direction of Jennifer Rodgers. The performance, titled “Awake!”, will feature classical Christmas music, including Bach's Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme and a quod libet mass of a cappella works. The concerts will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, December 12, and 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, at Collegiate Presbyterian Church. Tickets are available for $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and students, and $20 for a livestream option.

Creative Artists' Studios of Ames (CASA) will also host its annual holiday art sale on Saturday, December 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at its studios located at 130 S. Sheldon Ave. The sale will showcase handmade artwork by local artists, providing a unique opportunity for the community to purchase gifts directly from the creators. Participating artists include a wide range of names, such as Tiffany Antone, Mary Anne Begg, Suzy Block, and many others.

Final Farmers Market of 2025

For those looking for last-minute holiday shopping, the Ames Main Street Farmers Market will hold its final market of 2025 on Saturday, December 13, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Quality Inn & Suites Starlite Village Conference Center. The market will feature about 50 vendors offering baked goods, locally raised meats, and other fresh gift ideas.