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Christmas lights in the USA: here's where to appreciate them best

11/30/2023

WHERE TO ADMIRE THE STUNNING Christmas Lights in the USA

This tradition has ancient roots, dating back to the pagan rituals of Northern Europe, symbolizing the hope for the sun's return after winter. From the old traces of Yule to modern LED displays, American Christmas lights offer a wonderful spectacle from November through early January. So why not visit to admire the splendid Christmas lights of the USA?

EDITOR'S NOTE: If you're planning a Christmas in Miami, don't miss the famous Fort Lauderdale Boat Parade, a traditional kickoff to the holiday season in South Florida. This year it will be held on December 16, 2023, from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park.

The Top 10 Most Beautiful Christmas Lights in the USA

Alabama: Magic Christmas in Lights

From November 17 to December 24, 2023, the Oxford Festival of Lights turns Choccolocco Park into a magical Winter Wonderland, celebrating the holiday season. The event features one of the most beautiful Christmas lights in the USA with the spectacular Family-Friendly Drive-Through Light Show.

Visitors can enjoy the installations from their vehicle or park and visit Santa's Village, complete with majestic Christmas trees, food trucks, ice skating, and even photos with Santa Claus. Since 1995, Bellingrath Gardens & Home has been a destination for Christmas lights in Alabama, boasting over 1,100 lighted artworks and three million lights.

Arizona: The Tumbleweed Tree

Chandler's Tumbleweed Tree began in 1957, when a fire destroyed Christmas decorations. In response, the city created a tree using tumbleweed (a dry, dead plant that detaches from its root and tumbles along the ground, often propelled by the wind), starting a unique tradition among Christmas lights in the USA.

Initially underrated, the tree became famous by 1959. Today, residents celebrate the Tumbleweed Tree with annual traditions, culminating in its lighting during the holidays.

California: Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights lights up the night with decorated boats, celebrating the holidays each year with spectacular light displays. It can be viewed from the shore or aboard vessels from Captain Dave’s, Dana Wharf, and the Ocean Institute.

In Dana Point, boats transform into Christmas spectacles during the Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights, featuring decorations, holiday photos, visits from Santa Claus, and installations like the "Merry Kiss Me" arch and the gigantic whale. The King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade is another beloved family event.

Colorado: The Ski Tree

In Telluride, Colorado, one of the USA's most unique Christmas lights displays can be found: the Ski Tree, a special spectacle created by local artist and blacksmith Anton Viditz Ward. Entirely constructed with snow skis, even the star at the top is made from ski poles.

A tradition in the ski town since 2013, the tree is assembled each year as part of Noel Night, an event that kicks off two weeks of local festivities. Those who prefer a more traditional display can check out the Denver Botanic Gardens for their annual Blossoms of Light event.

Florida, Disney World

During the holiday season, the Disney World theme park becomes even more magical. Hotels and vast areas of the park are decked with some of the USA's finest Christmas lights, and offer additional seasonal treats and festive entertainment that can only be enjoyed during the most wonderful time of the year.

To give children an unforgettable experience, don't miss Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom. This event provides the chance to meet Santa Claus, watch Christmas shows, and enjoy the scheduled fireworks.

Illinois, Zoo Lights

In 2023, the Zoo Lights return with new spectacular LED displays, transforming the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago into a winter wonderland. The novelty includes a garden-themed light show and interactive installations throughout the zoo.

Furthermore, the Pepper Family Wildlife Center becomes the North Pole, with Santa Claus next to the Christmas tree. The Light Maze, the Ferris wheel, and ice sculptors will delight attendees. Snowy’s Spirits & S’more offers festive cocktails and hot chocolate.

Louisiana, Celebration in the Oaks

Celebration in the Oaks is New Orleans' Christmas tradition, one of the country's most spectacular light displays, attracting over 135,000 visitors from around the world. The event lasts 37 days, offering unlimited access to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with 18 rides and the elegant Botanical Garden.

The famous live oaks of City Park will be wrapped in over a million lights, with luminous displays scattered along the 2.25-mile driving path. The tour lasts about 30-47 minutes, while classic Christmas music plays, making what many call the most spectacular Christmas lights in the USA.

Nevada, Glittering Lights

A visit to Glittering Lights at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a truly unique experience. It's a one-and-a-half-mile course boasting over five million lights and 400 animated displays. This light show offers a magical experience with bright lights and captivating scenes.

However, it is important to note that the event does not take place on the racetrack itself, so speed limits are still enforced. An extraordinary opportunity to immerse oneself in the festive atmosphere of Christmas lights in the USA without compromising safety.

New York, Dyker Heights

Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, a neighborhood beyond the bustle of downtown New York, is one of the city's premier Christmas attractions. This area is renowned for its beautifully decorated homes, drawing in around 100,000 visitors each year.

Homeowners, often employing professionals, create flawless displays. The most involved streets range from 11th to 13th Avenue and from 83rd to 86th street, and there are tours (by foot or bus) that facilitate exploration.

Pennsylvania, Koziar’s Christmas Village

"Koziar's Christmas Village" in Bernville, about a 90-minute drive from Philadelphia, is a cozy annual tradition that comes to life at the beginning of November and continues until January 1st. When the event began in 1948, it featured the beautiful "Christmas House" decorated by William and Grace Koziar.

Over the years, the Koziars have expanded the tradition, decorating nearby barns, paths, and trees to create an entire Christmas village. A charming experience that transforms the area into a magical Christmas world, suitable for both adults and children to fully appreciate the Christmas lights in the USA.