Dogs and Cats Only!
Bring your dog or cat for a short, festive photo with Santa at Santa's Village in Lakemont Park. Slots are limited on December 8; book in advance to secure your time and acknowledge the waiver.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–10 minutes (per booking; allow 5–10 minutes for check-in)
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for most pet owners and children.
Wildlife
History
Lakemont Park dates to the late nineteenth century and remains a historic Altoona amusement area that frames seasonal events like Santa's Village.
Conservation
Bring and use waste bags and keep pets leashed to protect grounds and wildlife; avoid flash photography to reduce stress on animals and wildlife.
Lakemont Park
Dogs and Cats Only!
Lakemont Park in Altoona, Pennsylvania, hosts the seasonal Holiday Lights on the Lake, a long-running community tradition that welcomes visitors for festive light displays and family-friendly experiences. The park’s seasonal program includes the drive-through Festival of Lights and a Walking Tour through Holiday Lights, both featuring more than a million lights arranged in animated scenes with whimsical characters.
Lakemont Park’s Holiday Lights events have been a cherished local tradition for over 20 years, drawing families and visitors who come to experience the illuminated displays and seasonal atmosphere. The drive-through Festival of Lights offers a vehicle-based route past large-scale animated installations, while the walking tour provides a more intimate experience through illuminated scenes and close-up details. Both experiences highlight decorative lighting, animated motion, and themed displays designed for all ages.
On-site features associated with the event include Santa’s gift shop, where visitors can find unique treasures and freshly baked goods. These seasonal offerings complement the light displays and add a shopping and refreshment element to visits. Lakemont Park’s Holiday Lights on the Lake positions the park as a destination for holiday outings in Altoona, combining large-scale lighting artistry with family-oriented seasonal attractions. The event’s multi-decade run and consistent seasonal production contribute to its reputation as a dependable local holiday experience.
Location
Altoona, PA
Located in Altoona, Pennsylvania
Holiday Tradition
20+ years
Celebrated for over two decades
Lighting Scale
1M+ lights
More than a million lights
Visitor Appeal
Family friendly
Designed for all ages
Choose the drive-through Festival of Lights or the Walking Tour through Holiday Lights and enjoy Altoona’s long-standing seasonal tradition.
Book your slot early
Advance registration is required and space is limited — reserve as soon as times are posted to lock a convenient evening slot.
Bring a familiar treat
A small, high-value treat or favorite toy helps focus pets for a three-minute photo session and speeds the process.
Leash or carrier ready
Keep your pet on a short leash or in a carrier until called for the session to ensure safety in a crowded gift-shop area.
Skip the flash
Lighting is staged for evening photos — avoid flash which can startle pets and wash out holiday lighting effects.
Short leash or carrier
Keeps your pet secure and easy to position during the quick photo session.
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High-value treats
Useful to get attention and reward calm behavior during the shot.
Towel or small blanket
Provides footing or warmth for pets that may be nervous in cool evening air.
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Waste bags
Required for responsible pet waste disposal around the event area.