Enchanting Light Displays to Visit this Holiday Season
When the days get shorter, every small town and big city break out the lights for park trees and main streets. One of the best pastimes of the season is taking in the magical scenes of classic, neighborhood displays as well as special installations at local landmarks and businesses. Take a look at the list below for inspiration on where to go for some of the most enchanting sights of the season this year across the US.
Head underground to this sparkling cavern
When the temperature goes down, the cheer and warmth of Louisville, Kentucky welcomes visitors to experience the holiday spirit through captivating light displays and decorations. Downtown Louisville brightens up the state with millions of sparkling lights, but none more exciting than the annual Lights Under Louisville at the Louisville Mega Cavern, happening from November 10th to January 1st. Drive through the MEGA Cavern to witness the world's only underground holiday light show, featuring 40 themed displays, over 900 lit characters, and more than 6.5 million points of light. It's a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience!
See New York City landmarks at their brightest
New York City's holiday season is a spectacle of lights, cheer, and joy, and Like A Local Tours invites visitors and locals alike to experience this wonder firsthand with their exclusive Private Fifth Avenue Lights & Sights Holiday Walking Tour. This 3-hour tour is an invitation to experience the holiday magic of Manhattan like never before. Starting at the iconic New York Public Library, at Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street, guests will embark on a 1.5-mile walk, guided by an experienced, local guide. This tour is an intimate exploration of the city's festive heart, perfect for families starting new traditions, friends seeking adventure, or those welcoming out-of-town guests. Tour highlights Include:
- Iconic Landmarks: Marvel at the majestic Rockefeller Center, home to the famous Christmas tree and ice skating rink.
- Holiday Markets and Treats: Explore the Bryant Park Winter Village and Columbus Circle Holiday Market, featuring unique gifts and treat yourself to one of NYC's most Instagrammable doughnuts and warm up with mulled wine or hot cocoa.
- Spectacular Window Displays: Fifth Avenue's renowned store windows are a must-see, showcasing creative and awe-inspiring holiday designs.
- St. Patrick's Cathedral's Holiday Spirit: Visit the stunning St. Patrick's Cathedral, beautifully decorated for the holiday season, and take a moment for reflection.
- Educational and Entertaining Stories: Learn about the history and traditions of New York City's holiday season.
The Private Fifth Avenue Lights & Sights Holiday Walking Tour is more than a sightseeing experience; it's a journey into the heart of New York City's holiday spirit. Create cherished memories and enjoy the essence of the holidays in one of the world's jolliest cities this time of the year. Reservations for the tour are now open. Experience the magic of New York City's holiday season and make this year's festivities unforgettable.
Marvel at the spirited sights of horse country
In Lexington, Kentucky, visitors can enjoy a drive through light display in the heart of horse country. Celebrating its 30th year at the Kentucky Horse Park, Southern Lights Holiday Festival is one of the top light shows in the Southeast. From November 24th - December 31st, Lexington showcases the best of Kentucky’s famed horse country with a holiday influence in this elaborate three-mile seasonal display. At the end of the route, the Kentucky Horse park invites visitors to park and explore the Holiday Village (included in admission) where guests can enjoy a petting zoo, train ride and meet-and-greet with Santa.
Explore Rock City's enchanted garden
Venture through the Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City in Chattanooga, Tennesee. Christmas spirit shines bright at Rock City's Enchanted Garden of Lights. From November 17th to January 6th, journey through magical realms of winter wonder as over one million LED lights illuminate Lookout Mountain's most iconic attraction. Grab a picture with Santa at the North Pole Village thru Dec. 23 and decorate Christmas cookies with Mrs. Claus. Hot chocolate and other delicious treats including fudge and fried cookie dough make the nights even sweeter. Pets are welcome. A portion of ticket proceeds benefits the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Chattanooga.
Experience magic at Hogwarts Castle
Head to Orlando, Florida to Universal Studios for truly fantastic lights and decor. Holiday magic fills The Wizarding World of Harry Potter as the streets of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade transform into a wizarding holiday wonderland overflowing with festively themed décor, lights, garland and more. The nighttime spectacle, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” returns to Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure bringing to life a stunning projection show highlighting Christmas moments and holiday spirit inspired by the beloved characters and stories of the “Harry Potter” films. The Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant croaking frogs also returns to Hogsmeade with a special holiday-themed performance, plus guests can groove to the music of the wizarding world’s most popular singing sensation, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, in Diagon Alley.
Take it slow through the Bristol Speedway
The Speedway in Lights is a breathtaking holiday spectacle that illuminates the Bristol Motor Speedway near the Virginia and Tennessee border, transforming it into a mesmerizing winter wonderland. As visitors drive through the speedway's grounds, they are greeted by a dazzling array of more than two million twinkling lights, forming intricate displays and enchanting scenes that capture the spirit of the season. The meticulously crafted light displays range from vibrant holiday-themed exhibits to whimsical depictions of popular characters, creating a captivating journey that evokes wonder and joy. In addition to the enchanting light displays, Bristol's Speedway in Lights often features special themed nights, live entertainment and opportunities for visitors to engage in festive activities, making it a must-visit destination during the winter holiday season.
Marvel at a coastal wonderland
Experience the 9th Annual Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival, named the 'Most Magical Show in Mississippi,' on the coast of Mississippi through December 31st, from 5:30 – 10:30 pm. The celebration includes new light shows, rides, live entertainment, and more. Closed Christmas Eve, Open Christmas Day.