Holiday Lights Destinations That Inspire Awe
Holiday lights transform cities and towns into magical spectacles each winter season. Whether you’re decorating your home or planning a winter getaway, exploring holiday lights is sure to brighten your season. Across the U.S. and around the world, dazzling displays blend art, technology, and tradition to deliver unforgettable experiences.
Begin your holiday lights adventure in Dyker Heights, New York City. This Brooklyn neighborhood is renowned for its elaborate residential light displays. From late November through New Year’s, entire streets glow with animatronic Santas, towering nutcrackers, and synchronized light-and-music shows. For the best experience, visit between 11th and 13th Avenues from 83rd to 86th Streets. Arrive early, dress warmly, and bring cash to donate to local charities.
On the West Coast, The Mission Inn Festival of Lights in Riverside, California, offers a stunning warm-weather holiday light experience. Over 5 million lights envelop the historic hotel and nearby streets. Visitors enjoy festive carriage rides, holiday treats, and live caroling. Visit midweek to avoid the weekend crowds, and book your stay months in advance to secure the best accommodations.
Underrated Holiday Lights Gems
Some of the most charming holiday lights displays are found off the beaten path. Leavenworth, Washington, a Bavarian-style village in the Cascade Mountains, hosts the enchanting Village of Lights festival. Snow-covered rooftops, gingerbread storefronts, and glowing alpine streets create a picturesque winter escape. Visitors sip mulled wine, shop boutique stores, and enjoy sleigh rides through the snowy landscape.
Another hidden treasure is Grand Geneva Resort and Spa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Each year, its Christmas in the Country event features more than 2 million holiday lights. Scenic drive-through displays, trolley tours, and gingerbread workshops make this event ideal for families. Be sure to reserve early for weekend visits.
In the Deep South, Natchitoches, Louisiana hosts one of the most historic holiday lights festivals in the U.S. The Natchitoches Christmas Festival showcases 300,000 lights along Cane River Lake and historic Front Street. Floating parades, fireworks, and tasty Creole holiday treats add local flavor. Don’t miss the traditional meat pies and spiced pecans sold by riverside vendors.
Creative Displays to Spark Holiday Lights Ideas
Many cities use holiday lights to inspire and innovate. In Washington, D.C., ZooLights at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo features over half a million energy-efficient LED lights. Animated animal-themed exhibits and music-responsive installations make this event especially unique. Entry is free but requires a timed pass—reserve early and take public transport to avoid parking challenges.
Chicago’s Lincoln Park ZooLights offers cutting-edge 3D projections, glowing tunnels, and a festive light maze. Family-friendly attractions include hot cocoa stands, carousel rides, and live ice sculpture demonstrations. Weekend tickets sell fast, so plan ahead for a smooth visit.
In Texas, Trail of Lights in Austin lights up Zilker Park with over 2 million lights and whimsical holiday sculptures. The 155-foot Zilker Holiday Tree, made of 3,000 lights, crowns the display. Enjoy live concerts, food trucks, and festive picnics under the stars. Opt for a ZIP pass for early entry and fewer crowds.
Immersive Holiday Lights Experiences
Interactive holiday lights attractions invite guests to stroll through illuminated wonderlands. LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo features over 1 million lights blended with interactive exhibits and glowing animal figures. It’s ideal for families or couples looking for a festive evening out. Parking is limited, so consider a rideshare option.
Enchant Christmas is another immersive option, held in several cities including San Jose, Las Vegas, and Dallas. This massive walk-through light maze changes theme each year and includes a European-style Christmas market. Popular with families and photographers alike, the event also features skating trails and VIP food tastings. Be sure to buy tickets in advance.
In Portland, Oregon, Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway begins as a drive-through display, but designated walk nights allow visitors to stroll through lighted tunnels and themed zones like “Penguin Lane” and “Candy Cane Lane.” Local cycling enthusiasts even enjoy a special bike-only night for a green, zero-emissions celebration.
Worldwide Holiday Lights Worth the Trip
For those eager to explore global holiday lights, international cities offer spectacular displays. In Kobe, Japan, the Kobe Luminarie features Italian-designed light arches dedicated to the memory of the 1995 earthquake. The display runs for a limited time in December and features street performers beneath stunning hand-painted light sculptures.
In Scandinavia, Gothenburg, Sweden impresses with its eco-conscious Lane of Light. Over 5 kilometers of wind-powered lights connect the Central Station to Liseberg Amusement Park. Celebrate the season with Swedish glögg, handmade crafts, and warm cinnamon buns while browsing the festive Christmas markets.
Vienna, Austria turns into a glowing fairytale during December. Fleets of chandeliers and golden lights highlight the city’s baroque architecture. Visit Christmas markets surrounded by trees wrapped in twinkling lights, and enjoy ice skating and choir concerts at Rathausplatz. For fewer crowds and the best lighting contrast, visit just after dusk in early December.
Bringing Holiday Lights Magic Home
Even if travel isn’t in your plans this season, you can recreate the festive spirit with holiday lights at home. String lights on porches, rooftops, or palm trees, and add personal flair with synchronized music or projected imagery. Apps like Light-O-Rama and programmable LED setups offer advanced options for enthusiastic decorators.
Before exploring any holiday lights event, check schedules and entry requirements. Many displays now use timed reservations to manage attendance. Dress in warm layers, bring a thermos of cocoa, use a tripod for photos, and consider binoculars for detailed viewing. Holiday lights continue to bring communities together through wonder, color, and warmth—making even the longest nights feel merry and bright.
