WILLIAMSTOWN, Ky. — It’s an iconic Kentucky landmark that during the holiday season is transformed to reflect the true meaning of Christmas.


What You Need To Know

  • Christmas Time at Ark Encounter offers vistors more than just a light show

  • The life-sized Noah's Ark can be found in Willilamstown, Kentucky

  • It attracts visitors from around the country and world

  • Hours vary during the holiday, but can be found on their website

According to Ken Ham, the CEO and founder of The Ark Encounter, “You go a long way in America to find anything like the Christmas programs. We have the lights right there at the Ark Encounter.”

More than one million festive lights cover the grounds of The Ark Encounter in Williamstown.

Ham explained, “The ark is actually the biggest themed attraction in Kentucky and people come from all over the world to come to the ark and when you look at our Christmas lights and all that we do for our Christmas time programs, hey, it’s up there with the best anywhere in the world.”

New to this year’s display is a laser projection program which illuminates on the side of the full-size Noah’s Ark, delivering a Christmas message visitors flock to see.

More than one million festive lights cover the grounds of The Ark Encounter in Williamstown. (Spectrum News 1/Steve France)

Jasmine Butler said, “I love it actually. I think that it’s actually while also seeing the lights and coming to see the Arc, you kind of get to see part of the story and the main part of Christmas, and it kind of brings back the Christ in Christmas, and I really enjoy it.”

Addie Caldwell and Barbara Curd had to see the attraction and echoed Butler’s sentiment. They said, “It’s absolutely amazing. It’s beautiful. It’s breathtaking. It just reminds us of the beauty of God’s world.”

For those visiting Christmas Time at Ark Encounter, it’s much more than holiday lights. This Grant County landmark has become a must-see destination.

Jacklyn Butler said there is so much to see. “We just love the lights. We love the animals. We love the show to get out as a family.”

Malia Russell added, “We were just stunned. It was so beautiful.”

“A beautiful place. We actually live four hours away and a half from here, and we drove all the way from Michigan.” said Richard Opiniano.

So, if you are seeking a larger-than-life attraction, Christmas Time at Ark Encounter invites visitors to “Think Bigger” this holiday season.