The traditional boom and bang of fireworks on the Fourth of July have, in recent years, modernized to include the high-pitched whir of synchronized drones in Santa Claus, Indiana.
At Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, amusement park attendees this summer can once again watch hundreds of drones, some carrying pyrotechnics, during the Holidays in the Sky event, happening now until early August
Here’s what we know about it.
What will I see at the ‘Holiday in the Sky’ drone show?
The drone show features displays of patriotism and other holiday-themed images along with music and fireworks.
The show’s pyrotechnic moments include a lightning strike targeting a haunted house and a rocket-shaped drone formation that erupts with fireworks to simulate a rocket launch, according to a news release.
“We keep finding new ways to make Holidays in the Sky more impressive,” said Lauren Crosby, Director of Events & Entertainment in a news release. “The new pyrotechnic elements are taking the show to the next level–you truly have to see it to believe it!”
Holidays in the Sky debuted in 2022, according to a park spokesperson last year, who said only two other theme parks in North America had drone shows at the time.
Where’s the best place to watch the Holiday World drone show?
According to Holiday World, the best place to watch the drone show is at the Party Plaza in the Thanksgiving section, which is just past Good Gravy! roller coaster on your way to Thunderbird wing coaster.
How many drones does Holiday World have?
500 illuminated drones take part in the show, according to the theme park.
What dates can you see the drone show at Holiday World?
Can’t make the show on July 4? No worries. The drones are scheduled to fly nightly from now until Aug. 3.
What time does the Holiday World drone show begin?
Weather permitting, the show begins at 8:50 p.m. Holiday World suggests attendees to arrive early for its “Light the Night” DJ dance party, which starts at 8:20 p.m.
Story continues after photo gallery from 2024.
How long is the drone show?
The drone show lasts about 15 minutes, according to Holiday World.
When is Holiday World open?
Holiday World is open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday through Friday and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays. On July 4, Holiday World will be open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., according to its online calendar.
How much do Holiday World tickets cost?
Tickets to Holiday World can be purchased at the gate or online (which is cheaper). A one-day ticket to Holiday World on July 4, 2025 was listed at $66.99 online or $74.99 at the gate. Any day tickets began at $71.99 started at $86.99 online.
In addition to discounts for military, first responders and nursing professionals, Holiday World offers “preferred seating and snacks” tickets to its drone show starting at $29.99 in addition to the cost of entry. A more expensive package for the drone show includes front-of-the-line privileges to its theme park rides.
2025 Holiday World park map
Visit holidayworld.com for a map of the amusement park and a legend showing services throughout the park.
Where is Holiday World? Indiana or Kentucky?
Holiday World is at 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, Indiana.
John Tufts covers trending news for IndyStar and Midwest Connect. Send him a news tip at JTufts@Gannett.com. Find him on BlueSky at JohnWritesStuff.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Holiday World treats Indiana audiences with return of drone show, fireworks in 2025
Reporting by John Tufts, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
