U.S. Dazzling Delights: 10 Must-See Christmas Light Displays and Tours in America

Monday, 04 December 2023 : U.S. Dazzling Delights: 10 Must-See Christmas Light Displays and Tours in America

Holiday lights, whether they be Yule logs or candles, have been enchanting people for centuries. In 1880, Thomas Edison strung together the first electric lights outside his laboratory during Christmastime. Nowadays, homes and businesses across the U.S. adorn their halls, trees, and exteriors with lights, creating breathtaking spectacles that draw crowds year after year. U.S. News has rounded up the top Christmas light displays across America to help you prioritize your festive experiences. Whether you prefer intimate displays or extravagant shows, these colorful exhibits are sure to bring you holiday cheer.

1. Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens: Boothbay, Maine

   Held every Thursday to Sunday between Nov. 18 and Dec. 31 (closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day), Gardens Aglow transforms Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens into a mesmerizing wonderland. With over 750,000 lights adorning 14 acres, the event features unique shapes, from Christmas trees to mushrooms. Beyond the gardens, the Lighting Contest showcases community displays around Boothbay, adding to the magical atmosphere.

   • Price: $19 for adults, $10 for children (must be purchased in advance)

   • Dates: Nov. 18 to Dec. 31

2. Dyker Heights Light Displays: Brooklyn, New York

   Experience the festive spirit in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, where residents deck their homes in dazzling lights, figurines, and holiday cheer. The best displays are found between 11th and 13th avenues, from 83rd to 86th streets. Lights illuminate the area from late November to early January (5 to 9 p.m.), and guided tours by operators like Dyker Heights Christmas Lights offer an immersive experience for a fee.

   • Price: Free

   • Dates: Late November to early January

3. Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights: Bronx, New York

   As one of the top zoos in the U.S., the Bronx Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with nearly 400 lanterns representing animals worldwide. New for 2023, lanterns feature native New York species. The event includes light shows, a kid-friendly train ride, ice carving demonstrations, refreshments, and entertainers on stilts.

   • Price: Starts at $41.95 for adults, $26.95 for children 3 to 12 (must be purchased in advance)

   • Dates: Nov. 17 to Jan. 7

4. ZooLights at the Smithsonian's National Zoo: Washington, D.C.

   ZooLights at the Smithsonian's National Zoo is a premier event in Washington, D.C. With 500,000 colorful LED lights and glowing animal lanterns, the zoo transforms into a dazzling spectacle. Visitors can enjoy live music performances and tasty snacks while strolling through the illuminated pathways.

   • Price: $6 per person

   • Dates: Nov. 24 to Dec. 30

5. Koziar's Christmas Village: Bernville, Pennsylvania

   Located 45 miles southwest of Allentown, Koziar's Christmas Village offers a festive stroll through homes, trees, and fences adorned with lights and wireframe figures. The village includes photo opportunities with Santa, themed displays, and more.

   • Price: Starts at $13 for adults, $11 for children 4 to 10

   • Dates: Nov. 4 to Jan. 1

6. Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens: Wheaton, Maryland

   Brookside Gardens presents the Garden of Lights, featuring a half-mile walking path through a 50-acre garden adorned in shimmering holiday lights. The displays, themed around plants, flowers, and insects, include new features for 2023, such as a winter scene and simulated falling snow.

   • Price: $10 for ages 5 and older (tickets must be purchased online in advance)

   • Dates: Nov. 17 to Dec. 31

7. Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Resort & Gardens: Pine Mountain, Georgia

   Callaway Resort & Gardens' Fantasy in Lights offers a captivating walk-through experience with light tunnels, nutcrackers, and a 7-mile light show to drive through. The event includes the Callaway Christmas Village, glowing trees around the lake, and various festive attractions.

   • Price: Starts at $24.95 for adults, $19.95 for children 3 to 11

   • Dates: Nov. 17 to Jan. 1

8. Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights: Various Cities in Louisiana

   The Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights spans cities such as Alexandria, Minden, Monroe, Natchitoches, Logansport, Ruston, Shreveport, and Bossier City. Each destination offers unique light collections and special events. Natchitoches, for example, is known for illuminating its downtown area and hosting a Christmas Festival.

   • Price: Free at most displays, some may charge fees

   • Dates: Mid-November to early January

9. Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens: Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

   Brookgreen Gardens' Nights of a Thousand Candles boasts more than 2,700 real candles along with electric lights. The display includes illuminated oak trees, dinner options at on-site venues, hot drinks, and live music.

   • Price: $35 for adults, $17 for children 4 to 12 (tickets must be purchased in advance)

   • Dates: Nov. 25 to Dec. 31

10. Nights of Lights: St. Augustine, Florida

    St. Augustine's historic district sparkles with over 3 million lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Explore the illuminated sights, including the Lightner Museum and St. George Street. Guided tours are available, allowing you to experience the charm of Nights of Lights.

    • Price: Free

    • Dates: Nov. 18 to Jan. 28

Previous visitors have raved about these Christmas light displays, describing them as spectacular and a must-visit during the holiday season. Whether you prefer strolling through botanical gardens, exploring themed villages, or admiring wildlife-inspired lanterns, these displays offer a variety of enchanting experiences for the whole family. Make this holiday season memorable by immersing yourself in the festive magic of these dazzling Christmas light attractions.