Planning the Perfect Christmas Lights Tour: A Guide To Touring!

Christmas ornament with ribbon

The holiday season is a magical time of year when neighborhoods transform into sparkling wonderlands filled with twinkling lights, festive displays, and a sense of joy that brings communities together. Planning a trip to explore Christmas-lit homes is a delightful way to celebrate the season with family and friends. Whether it’s a spontaneous evening drive or a carefully planned outing, a little preparation can make your experience truly memorable. Here’s how to plan your own Christmas lights tour in a way that’s fun, cozy, and stress-free.

My kids will tell you that I have dragged them all over creation in the search for lights.

Cups full of hot chocolate, Christmas music playing… How good is that? I am the King of Lights. My kids think I am Clark Griswold!

1. Set the Stage for Holiday Fun

Gather Your Group

The first step in planning your Christmas lights adventure is deciding who will join you. Is this a family outing, a romantic date night, or a festive hangout with friends? The company you keep can set the tone for the evening. If you’re bringing kids, focus on routes with whimsical displays featuring Santa, reindeer, or cartoon characters. If it’s an adults-only affair, consider stopping at neighborhoods with synchronized light shows or more elegant, classic designs.

Choose a Cozy Ride

For many, the experience is as much about the journey as the destination. If you have a spacious car or SUV, make it extra cozy with blankets, festive pillows, and maybe even battery-operated fairy lights. If the group is large, consider renting a van or even a limo for a luxurious twist.

The first year my wife and I were married, I loaded the kids into a 1980s Volvo, and drove 1.5 hours to a beautiful lighting display!

2. Map Out Your Route

Do Your Research

Some neighborhoods are legendary for their Christmas lights displays. A quick online search can help you pinpoint areas known for their decorations. Websites, local Facebook groups, or community forums often share detailed maps or suggestions for the best streets to visit. Apps like Nextdoor or holiday light tracker maps can also guide you to must-see spots..

It’s easier now because I can load the Google map of the area with ALL the homes.

Prioritize the Highlights

Create a list of the top locations you’d like to visit. If time is limited, focus on a few standout areas instead of trying to cover too much. For example:

• Neighborhoods with a Theme: Some communities plan coordinated decorations, like “Candy Cane Lane” or “Christmas Village.” (One of faves when I lived in Vermont was to shoot across the border to Claremont NH to one WHOLE street of lights.)
• Notable Houses: Keep an eye out for houses famous for extravagant displays or synchronized music and light shows.
• Drive-Thru Displays: Many towns host drive-thru light festivals, which can be a great alternative on a chilly evening.

I have driven my family to La Sallette in Enfield, New Hampshire, Bright Lights in Massachusetts, and more. If I had $100K I would do a display locally!

Plan a Logical Route

Use a mapping app to arrange your stops in a logical order. This saves time and helps avoid backtracking, especially if you’re visiting popular spots that might attract crowds.

3. Timing is Everything

Pick the Right Night

Weeknights are usually less crowded than weekends, so if you can swing a weekday outing, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed experience. Check the weather forecast, too—clear, crisp evenings are perfect for lights tours, though light snow can add a touch of magic.

I drag my family out EVERY night!

Go Early or Late

Aim to start your tour just after sunset when the lights are fully visible but before bedtime if you’re bringing little ones. If you’re planning a romantic or adults-only outing, a later start might offer a quieter, more serene experience.

4. Pack for Comfort and Cheer

Dress Warmly

Even if you’re staying in the car, it’s a good idea to bundle up. You never know when you might want to step out for a closer look or to snap a photo. Layer up with scarves, gloves, and warm socks for maximum comfort.

Snacks and Drinks

No Christmas lights tour is complete without festive treats! Pack a thermos of hot cocoa, cider, or coffee, and bring along holiday-themed snacks like cookies, candy canes, or popcorn. For an added touch, serve your drinks in fun, reusable holiday mugs. My wife brings her wine!

Create a Playlist

Set the mood with a playlist of holiday classics. From Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” the right tunes can amplify the festive atmosphere. If your car has Bluetooth or an auxiliary connection, pair the music with the lights for a seamless experience.

5. Add Some Holiday Magic

Interactive Fun

Turn the trip into a game by creating a scavenger hunt or bingo card with holiday-themed items to spot, like a nativity scene, inflatable snowman, or reindeer. This is especially fun for kids, but adults can join in the competition too!

Vote on Favorites

Make the outing interactive by voting on your favorite displays. Categories could include “Most Creative,” “Brightest Lights,” or “Best Use of Color.” You could even bring a small trophy or ribbon to leave at the winning house, if the homeowner allows.

6. Make Stops Along the Way

Photo Opportunities

Some houses or neighborhoods are so stunning they beg for photos. Bring a camera or make sure your phone is charged and has plenty of storage. Keep in mind, it’s polite to stay on public sidewalks and avoid blocking traffic when snapping pictures.

Grab a Bite

If your route includes a town center or popular area, consider stopping at a local café or bakery for a warm drink or holiday dessert. It’s a wonderful way to support local businesses while enjoying seasonal treats.

7. Stay Safe and Considerate

Drive Carefully

Popular Christmas lights areas can attract heavy traffic, so drive slowly and remain attentive. Watch for pedestrians, especially kids, who may dart into the road while admiring the lights.

Respect the Displays

Remember that the homes you’re visiting are part of someone’s neighborhood. Keep noise levels down, avoid littering, and don’t block driveways. Some homeowners go all out to spread holiday cheer, and a little courtesy ensures they’ll continue the tradition.

8. Capture the Spirit

Document the Fun

Create lasting memories by taking plenty of photos and videos during your trip. A family selfie in front of a spectacular display or a candid shot of the kids’ reactions can become cherished keepsakes.

Santa looking at Jesus in the manger

Share the Joy

Consider sharing your experience on social media to spread holiday cheer. You might inspire others to plan their own Christmas lights tour or discover new locations for their list.

9. Bring the Experience Home

Get Inspired

If you’re awed by the creativity on display, take note of ideas for your own holiday decorating next year. Whether it’s a clever use of lights or a unique theme, you might find inspiration for your own festive masterpiece.

Create Traditions

Turn your Christmas lights outing into an annual tradition. Whether it’s exploring the same favorite spots or discovering new ones each year, this can become a cherished holiday ritual for your family or friends.

10. Embrace the Spirit of the Season

Spread Kindness

The holiday season is all about giving and joy. Consider bringing along small gifts, like candy canes or thank-you notes, to leave for homeowners whose displays you particularly admire. It’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation for the time, effort, and expense they’ve put into creating magic for others.

Christmas Book by Lee Johndrow

Reflect on the Joy

At the end of the night, take a moment to reflect on the warmth and beauty of the evening. The twinkling lights aren’t just decorations—they’re symbols of hope, togetherness, and the magic of the season.

Planning a trip to explore Christmas-lit homes is a simple yet enchanting way to celebrate the holidays. With a little preparation and a lot of holiday spirit, you can turn a regular evening into a cherished memory. So gather your loved ones, map out your route, and let the glow of the season guide you to a night filled with laughter, wonder, and festive joy.