The Story of Holiday World’s New Drone Show
The largest addition to Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari for 2022 is the “Holidays in the Sky” Drone and Fireworks Show.
Nightly through July 31st, 2022, finish your day at the park at the German American Bank Party Plaza for a dance party, and then watch the magic take flight with 300 illuminated drones.
I recently had the chance to catch up with Eric Snow, Holiday World Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer. He gave me some insights on creating the show and all the work his team put into the spectacular experience.
With no new attractions or rides this year, the team knew they wanted to create something for 2022 to add to the park’s entertainment lineup. The number of trees and hills throughout the park add some obstacles to creating an experience for hundreds of people, so they took their ideas to the sky.
Over the last few years, drone shows have started to become more popular at large events. With the latest technology utilized, the sky becomes a giant canvas for hundreds of illuminated drones, allowing for an extraordinary 3D animated show. The creative process for the Holidays in the Sky show began 6 to 7 months ago. The team put together a storyboard with ideas and worked closely with the drone company to craft the perfect plan, being sure to include all the elements and highlights that truly represent Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari.
From there, they started working on the animations.
Personally, I think the animations and transitions are some of the best parts of the show. It is something that isn’t expected at first. From the tip of the hat from Frosty the Snowman to a slice of pie being cut, they thought of it all.
Eric also pointed out some nuggets of details they made sure to include. This includes when the pumpkin becomes a jack-o-lantern. When you watch, the face is essentially being carved out and the lights are flickering like a candle inside. Be sure to pay close attention when you see it! No detail was missed. Pure perfection.
It’s not just about the drones. Yes, 15 minutes of 300 illuminated drones dancing in the sky is the showstopper, but the whole idea expanded to creating an end-of-day experience for guests. About 30 minutes before the drone show is a DJ Dance Party that fully embraces the “Light Up the Light” theme. With countless LED lights, light-up ground discs, bubbles, glow sticks, etc., the dance party is a hit for the whole family. It’s a great way to end a day of fun at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari while getting pumped for the Drone & Fireworks Show.
When asked what his favorite part of the show was, Eric had the perfect answer, “Hearing the reactions from the crowd.”
My experience with anyone from the Holiday World team has been the same. They genuinely keep their guests’ happiness at the forefront of their minds.
Hearing that excitement from the crowds firsthand was unforgettable. My family and I experienced the show for the first two nights of production and the crowd was filled with endless excitement with harmonious cheers. It is truly a must-see, in-person event.
Pictures and videos do not do it justice.
While the show in the sky is large and can be seen from all over the area, the best viewing area is the German American Bank Party Plaza in the Thanksgiving section. The show has a soundtrack that plays from that area, which you must hear to get the full experience. If you want to feel like a VIP for the Holidays in the Sky show, check out the Elevated Experience. We did it one night and would definitely do it again!
Share your own pictures with the hashtag #HoWoGlow on social media and follow it throughout July to see photos and videos of Holidays in the Sky.
