The holiday season is a time of magic, wonder, and glow—and few things capture that spirit like the best Christmas lights displays around the world. From quaint European markets to massive city-wide installations, these destinations go above and beyond to light up the season. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or simply dreaming of travel, these must-see locations promise a festive experience you’ll never forget.
Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, New York – A Residential Spectacle
If over-the-top holiday cheer is your thing, Dyker Heights delivers. Each December, this Brooklyn neighborhood transforms into a dazzling residential light show. Homeowners compete to create the most extravagant displays, featuring everything from life-size Santas to synchronized light and music shows. It’s a grassroots tradition that attracts thousands of visitors and embodies pure Christmas spirit.
Highlights:
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Elaborate private home decorations
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Walking tours and bus tours available
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Best seen after sunset for full effect
Vienna, Austria – Elegance and Tradition
Vienna combines centuries of tradition with holiday splendor. Its historic streets and squares are adorned with elegant lighting, while the city’s famous Christmas markets glow with lanterns and string lights. The Rathausplatz market and its shimmering ice rink provide a storybook setting you won’t soon forget.
Highlights:
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Classic European charm
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Lighted chandeliers along Graben Street
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World-renowned Christmas markets
Cologne, Germany – A Sparkling Rhine Christmas
Cologne’s seven Christmas markets each offer unique lighting themes, but the real showstopper is the market near the Cologne Cathedral. Here, a massive tree covered in lights serves as the centerpiece beneath a canopy of illuminated stars. Paired with the Gothic architecture, the display feels truly magical.
Highlights:
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Rhine River market views
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Festive light installations across the city
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Iconic cathedral backdrop
Rockefeller Center, New York City – Iconic Christmas Tree
No list of the best Christmas lights displays is complete without the Rockefeller Center tree. Standing tall and wrapped in tens of thousands of lights, this world-famous tree is surrounded by glowing angels and ice skaters. It’s a timeless symbol of the holidays in Manhattan.
Highlights:
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Lighting ceremony broadcast nationally
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Skating rink and nearby Fifth Avenue displays
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Easily walkable from other NYC attractions
Medellín, Colombia – A Tropical Light Fiesta
Known as “El Alumbrado,” Medellín’s annual Christmas light festival turns the city into a tropical wonderland. Millions of lights illuminate the Medellín River and surrounding parks, with themes that often blend traditional holiday motifs with Colombian culture.
Highlights:
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Nighttime river walk experiences
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Light tunnels, sculptures, and animations
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Ideal for warm-weather travelers
Copenhagen, Denmark – Hygge and Light
The Danish concept of hygge (cozy comfort) comes to life at Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. During the holidays, Tivoli becomes a glowing spectacle of fairy lights, lanterns, and rustic decorations that wrap you in warmth despite the winter chill.
Highlights:
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Cozy European ambiance
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Rides and attractions lit for the season
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Gløgg and pastries under twinkling trees
Champs-Elysées, Paris, France – City of Lights
Paris earns its nickname in December when the Champs-Elysées transforms into a corridor of golden brilliance. The trees lining this world-famous boulevard are draped in radiant white and red lights, adding even more glamor to the city’s already luminous reputation.
Highlights:
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Perfect for romantic strolls
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Luxury shopping and gourmet holiday treats
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View of the Arc de Triomphe under holiday lights
Sydney, Australia – A Down-Under Light Celebration
Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere means summer fun. In Sydney, you’ll find massive light installations in Martin Place, Darling Harbour, and even on the Sydney Opera House. The warm weather allows for outdoor concerts, markets, and festive picnics under the lights.
Highlights:
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Projections on iconic landmarks
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Warm, summer-friendly events
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Night markets and family-friendly activities
National Christmas Tree, Washington, D.C. – America’s Holiday Heart
Located near the White House, the National Christmas Tree is surrounded by smaller trees representing every U.S. state and territory. Each tree is uniquely decorated and illuminated, making the display a patriotic tribute to the season. Free performances and ceremonies add to the experience.
Highlights:
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Family-friendly atmosphere
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Nearby National Mall landmarks
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State-themed decorations
Kobe Luminarie, Japan – Lights in Remembrance
Held in honor of the victims of the 1995 Hanshin earthquake, Kobe Luminarie is one of Japan’s most poignant and artistic light festivals. Intricate light structures form illuminated tunnels, arches, and panels, combining solemn beauty with festive spirit.
Highlights:
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Historical and emotional significance
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Limited time festival (usually early December)
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Best viewed after dusk with local food stalls nearby
Make Your Holidays Shine
From snowy city streets to tropical riverside paths, these destinations host some of the best Christmas lights displays on Earth. Each one blends local tradition, culture, and artistic vision to create unforgettable spectacles. Whether you travel to see them or gather inspiration for your own holiday decor, these glowing locations will leave you full of festive cheer.
Looking for more festive inspiration? Explore our guide to Lighting Up Love: The Best Valentine’s Day Outdoor Light Displays to keep the glow going into the next season.
