Photo: Tim Mossholder
With celebrations, lights, and Christmas music galore, the holidays are right around the corner.
During the most wonderful time of the year, some of the best memories are made while spending time with family and close loved ones.
This year, one of the most fun holiday outings to take with your family is to a Christmas music light show. But where can you find one? These extravagant displays of twinkling lights and festive music are all across the country.
This article has the top Christmas music light shows across the country for winter fun with your family.
1. St. Louis Holiday Lights Tours
If you live near or are taking a trip to St. Louis, Missouri this winter, you’re in luck. There are many beautiful light shows to see throughout the city.
The St. Louis Holiday Lights Tours chauffeurs families and friends of all ages to several bright light displays. You’ll see places like Tilley’s Park, Our Lady of the Snows, Santa’s Magical Kingdom, and Candy Cane Lane. Each destination commemorates the holiday season with holiday music and sparkling lights.
Guests also receive hot cocoa, cookies, and a soundtrack of classic Christmas songs to keep them in the spirit all throughout the ride. There is also a warm, crackling fireplace and big-screen television on the party bus to add a feel of luxury.
Treat your friends and family to this exciting, unique opportunity this year. It will make for a fun night out for long-lasting memories.
2. World of Illumination in Arizona
You’ll also find many options for stunning light shows in Arizona. One of the best in Arizona and the world, the World of Illumination Arctic Adventure attraction is one of a kind.
Named the “world’s largest drive-thru animated light show,” visitors can see millions of twinkling lights here. Each figurine and light decoration lines up to match a soundtrack of festive holiday tracks. Located in both Tempe and Glendale, this mile-long drive takes place from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. every night.
Be sure to purchase your tickets before attending and reserve your time slot.
3. Greensboro Science Center Winter Wonderlights
In beautiful Greensboro, North Carolina, you’ll find a dazzling light show at the Greensboro Science Center. The Winter Wonderlights attraction is an immersive experience for all ages to enjoy.
Not only will you find colorful lights draped through the trees, but you’ll also find high-tech digital shows all around you. Little ones and adults alike will love running around the outdoor play space as well as walking through a stunning canopy of lights.
Some dates and times will even provide an opportunity to meet Santa himself. Other special occasions also feature live holiday music by the Greensboro Opera that is sure to keep you in the spirit. To stay safe and adhere to Covid-19 guidelines, reserve your time slot and ticket before attending.
4. Atlanta’s Garden Lights, Holiday Nights
As one of the most spectacular winter activities in the south, a visit to Atlanta’s Garden Lights, Holiday Nights is sure to impress. At the Atlanta Botanical Garden, you’ll find gorgeous greenery and breathtaking lights all around.
This year’s theme, Alice’s Wonderland Reimagined, features the iconic characters in massive displays. The cascading lights and larger-than-life decor make for memories and photos that you’ll love.
Masks and social distancing are required and limited time slots are on sale now through January 16th.
5. Illumination Tree Lights at Illinois’ Morton Arboretum
For more gorgeous greenery and lights, the Illumination Tree Lights show at the Illinois Morton Arboretum is stunning. From November 20th through January 3rd, visitors can experience a 30 to 40-minute driving experience unlike any other.
With a spectacle of colorful lights and joyful holiday music, this Christmas music light show is award-winning. Some of the top favorite displays you’ll see are Symphony Woods, Crystal Promenade, and Woodland Wonder. There are also five new displays this year stretching along the two-mile drive.
Bring your hot cocoa, cameras, and loved ones to enjoy this stunning display from the comfort of your own vehicle.
6. The Mission Inn Festival of Lights in Riverside, California
In Riverside, California, you’ll find an unforgettable experience at The Mission Inn. Going on its 28th year, The Mission Inn Festival of Lights has seen millions of twinkling lights for the holiday season. Attracting over 500,000 visitors each year, this is a show you won’t want to miss.
Both the interior and the exterior of this stunning hotel feature colorful lights and decorations. For a full holiday treat, there are also luxurious accommodations and Christmas packages to choose from to book a stay. By reserving your stay at The Mission Inn, you’ll be dazzled by the Festival of Lights every night and relax with delicious cuisine and spa visits.
7. St. Augustine’s Night of Lights
As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine also has one of the most beautiful Christmas light shows. Listed in the world’s top ten holiday light displays by National Geographic, the Night of Lights spans across 20 blocks.
With gorgeous lights and festive music, visitors can experience the intricate designs at no cost. Be sure to pass through the Bridge of Leons and the Plaza de la Constitución for some of the best views.
We recommend taking a trolley tour to get up-close views and information from the comfort of a vehicle. You can also take a boat ride for water-side views of this magical city.
8. Holiday Lights Celebration at The Bronx Zoo
In The Bronx, New York City, you’ll find a display of global safari animals with magical holiday lights and music. Visitors can experience the Ocean, North America, Africa, Asia, and Latin America all in one trip. Each display at the Holiday Lights Celebration features Christmas festivities to spread cheer.
This light show is sure to entertain with stilt walkers, ice carving competitions, and other costumed characters. You’ll also find sweet holiday treats, a wildlife theater, and a gorgeous Christmas tree perfect for family photos.
Experience Christmas Music and Light Shows This Season
Coming together with family and friends during the holidays is one of the things that makes Christmas so special. This year, celebrate by experiencing one of these incredible Christmas music and light shows.
For more music and entertainment news, be sure to check out the rest of our website.