Discover North Carolina’s Most Breathtaking 2025 Christmas Light Displays That Will Leave You Spellbound This Holiday Season

Every year, a lot of travelers look forward to Christmas lights in North Carolina. These glowing displays pop up all over the state during the holidays and draw visitors of all ages. If you’re thinking about exploring Christmas light shows in North Carolina in 2025, you’ll find plenty of ways to plan festive trips and soak up the winter celebrations.

I’ve pulled together the details to help you find where and when to catch these impressive shows. Whether you’re into drive-through displays or prefer walking trails, you’ll find something that fits your style.

1) Lake Myra Christmas Light Show

I make it a point to visit the Lake Myra Christmas Light Show every year for the massive light displays. They use thousands of lights synced to music.

You’ll find the show outdoors, right in downtown Wendell.

It’s set up as a drive-through, so you can enjoy the lights from your car. Parking is close by, which is handy.

Families tend to show up in the evenings to watch the display together.

The light show usually runs from late November through December. I’d say get there early if you want to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.

There’s no admission fee, but they do accept donations.

Rating: 4.6 (419 reviews)
Location: 10 S Cypress St, Wendell, NC 27591

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Late Nov-Dec 2025	Evenings (TBA)	10 S Cypress St, Wendell, NC 27591	Free (donate)	Booking.com: Wendell Hotels	Visit Website

2) Meadow Lights

I always end up at Meadow Lights during the holiday season, just to see the display that covers 30 acres. There are over 8,000 Christmas lights, and the tallest one stands 37 feet high.

You can spot the lights from the road, but the best part is riding the train through 10 acres of displays.

People also rave about the old-fashioned candy store. I’ve lost count of how many types of candy they sell—over 300, plus preserves, hot apple cider, and quirky signs.

The store opens during the light show, and it’s hard not to stop in.

Meadow Lights isn’t just about lights and candy. Santa comes by every night until December 24.

Kids line up for photos or just to chat about their wish lists.

There’s also an enclosed carousel that keeps spinning even when it rains, and it’s fun for all ages.

You’ll find concessions next to the train station, with snacks and drinks for sale. I usually check their website or call ahead to confirm the latest hours and prices.

Rating: 4.6 (1,755 reviews)
Location: 4546 Godwin Lake Rd, Benson, NC 27504
Contact: (919) 669-5969
Website: Visit Website

Dates (2025)	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Nov – Dec 2025*	Evenings*	4546 Godwin Lake Rd, Benson, NC	Varies*	View Hotels on Booking.com	meadowlights.com

*Dates, times, and cost may change. Please check the event website for the most current information.

3) Forest City Christmas Lights

I love strolling down Forest City’s Main Street every year to see more than a million Christmas lights. The display stretches through the historic downtown, and the whole area glows with holiday cheer.

Most nights, the lights turn on from 5PM to 11:30PM.

The season kicks off with a lighting ceremony on November 27 at 6:30PM, when the Mayor flips the switch. There’s also a Christmas parade on November 30.

Shops and restaurants nearby often stay open on event nights, so you can grab a bite or do some holiday shopping.

From December 5 through December 20, Fridays and Saturdays bring special activities. You can book a horse-drawn carriage ride online or buy hayride tickets on site.

There’s a synthetic ice skating rink, Santa meet-and-greet, a big lighted ornament for photos, and food trucks and vendors.

The event takes place right in downtown Forest City, North Carolina. Parking on Main Street fills up fast during big events, so I usually park in a municipal lot nearby.

Rating: 4.7 (186 reviews)
Location: W Main St, Forest City, NC 28043
Contact: 828-447-1730
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Nov 27, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026	5PM-11:30PM (lights nightly)	W Main St, Forest City, NC 28043	Free (rides may have fees)	Forest City hotels	Visit Website

4) Christmas Lights On The Farm

I stumbled onto Christmas Lights On The Farm in Middlesex, North Carolina. The show happens on a real working farm and uses farm-style decorations.

Visitors drive through to see displays lit up with thousands of lights.

Families and groups find it easy to join in—most people just drive their cars along the set path.

The show’s traditional farm theme stands out, with simple light designs that highlight barns and fields.

Some features change every year, but the drive-through route always stays the main attraction.

I’d recommend arriving early in the evening to dodge long lines. Facilities are pretty basic, so I usually bring snacks and plan bathroom stops ahead.

Rating: 4.7 (99 reviews)
Location: 11959 NC-222, Middlesex, NC 27557
Contact: (919) 269-8620
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby (Booking.com)	Website
Late Nov – Dec (varies yearly)	6:00pm–9:00pm (check website)	11959 NC-222, Middlesex, NC 27557	Per car (see website)	Hotels near Middlesex, NC	christmaslightsonthefarm.com

5) Lights on the Neuse

I go to Lights on the Neuse when I want a Christmas light show that feels a little different. This one happens on a real working farm, but you won’t drive through—instead, you hop on an old-fashioned hayride and ride around the property to see all the lights.

If I’m in the mood for a snack, concessions are open, and there’s a cookie decorating station for kids or anyone who likes to get creative. Santa doesn’t make an appearance, but his sleigh is there for photos, so I always bring my camera.

They also sell farm products like milk, eggs, pork, and whole chicken if you want to take something home.

Everyone (except kids 2 and under) needs a ticket. You buy timed tickets online to keep lines down, but you can also pick them up in person during ticket booth hours.

Weather can mess with opening nights, so I always check their website and Facebook page before heading out.

Rating: 4.2 (104 reviews)
Location: 1620 Loop Rd, Clayton, NC 27527
Contact: (919) 553-0016
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Check schedule	Varies	1620 Loop Rd, Clayton, NC 27527	See website	Clayton hotels	https://lightsontheneuse.com/

6) Rogers Family Christmas lights show

I checked out the Rogers Family Christmas lights show in Apex, and wow, they really go all out. The family sets up thousands of LED lights across their yard, and each year, the display just gets bigger.

It’s a simple setup, but honestly, it’s still super impressive—especially since the lights sync up with music. When I visited, I just tuned my car radio to 93.5 FM and picked a song I liked.

That made the whole thing interactive and a little more personal. I liked that I could enjoy the show right from my car or step out onto the sidewalk.

There’s no need for tickets, and the whole thing is free. The lights run every night from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, usually 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

The Rogers family always encourages everyone to sing along and just soak up the holiday spirit. They put this on to bring the community joy, and they also highlight Cure SMA in memory of their son.

If you want to donate, you’ll find info posted at the display.

Rating: 4.7 (85 reviews)
Location: 700 Bay Bouquet Ln, Apex, NC 27523
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby (Booking.com)	Website
Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, 2025	5:30 pm – 10:30 pm daily	700 Bay Bouquet Ln, Apex, NC 27523	Free	Book hotels in Apex, NC	https://rogersfamilylights.com/

7) Lake Linda’s Christmas Lights

I made it out to Lake Linda’s Christmas Lights in Hampstead to see their annual holiday display. This non-profit event runs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s and is organized by a small local crew.

The focus stays on outdoor light displays for families and small groups. I noticed the show draws folks from both the community and nearby towns.

They set up the lights around a small lake, so you can walk or drive through. I appreciated that it felt simple and family-friendly without the stress of crowds or vendors.

During my visit, I learned the event raises money for local causes. You can donate or pay entry fees online, which is convenient.

Volunteers help manage the traffic and keep things running smoothly all season.

Rating: 4.9 (366 reviews)
Location: 218 Old House Rd, Hampstead, NC 28443
Contact: (910) 279-3892
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Thanksgiving – New Year’s (2025)	Not listed on website	218 Old House Rd, Hampstead, NC 28443	Not listed	Hampstead Hotels – Booking.com	http://www.lakelindaschristmaslights.com/

8) Piper Lights

I’ve visited Piper Lights in Wake Forest, North Carolina during the Christmas season. This drive-through light show covers a big private property, with thousands of colorful lights and displays.

Families can stay in their cars, which makes it extra convenient—especially when it’s freezing outside. The show usually runs from late November until just after Christmas.

There’s no set fee to drive through, but they do accept donations to help keep the display going. Crowds get bigger on weekends and right before the holidays, so I’d go on a weekday evening if you want a quieter visit.

A local family runs Piper Lights and they’ve been at it for years. For the latest on hours or last-minute updates, I check their Facebook page.

Sometimes they offer a little gift shop or hot drinks, but that changes every year.

Rating: 4.7 (400 reviews)
Location: Piper Lights, Wake Forest, NC
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Late Nov – Dec	Evenings	5725 Fixit Shop Rd, Wake Forest, NC	Donation	Wake Forest hotels	http://www.facebook.com/piperlights

9) Christmastown USA

Christmastown USA in McAdenville really stands out for its long tradition of light displays every Christmas season. Each December, the whole town decorates trees with red, white, and green lights.

The displays wind through the historic downtown, and you can see them by car or on foot. This event started in 1956, thanks to local residents and business leaders.

Over the years, TV shows and magazines have featured Christmastown, so it’s gotten a lot of attention. Most people visit between December 2 and December 26, when the lights shine from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM each night.

When I walk through, I always notice the sounds of holiday music and bells. It just adds to the whole vibe.

People love to take a slow drive or stroll and admire the lights with friends or family. It’s become a tradition for many locals, and every year thousands show up.

Rating: 4.5 (882 reviews)
Location: 212 Wesleyan Dr, McAdenville, NC 28101
Contact: (704) 824-3190
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Dec 2 – Dec 26	5:30 PM – 10:00 PM	212 Wesleyan Dr, McAdenville	Free	Hotels in McAdenville	Visit Website

10) Chester Family Light Show

I visited the Chester Family Light Show in Granite Falls and thought it was a pretty well-run local holiday event. Families and visitors come out to see the house and yard covered in colorful lights, all set to music.

The show takes over a private home and yard. Every year, the family puts in a lot of work setting up the decorations and lights, making sure guests have a good experience.

You can drive by or stop and watch, depending on what you’re in the mood for. Parking is along the street, so I’d get there before dark if you want a decent spot—especially on weekends.

They don’t have food vendors, so I usually bring my own snacks and drinks. There’s no entry fee, but sometimes the Chester family accepts donations to help with costs.

These are totally optional. Before I go, I check their Facebook page for updates or last-minute changes.

Rating: 4.8 (44 reviews)
Location: 1350 Saviour Ln, Granite Falls, NC 28630
Website: Visit Website

Dates (2025)	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website Address
To be announced (Dec)	Evenings	1350 Saviour Ln, Granite Falls, NC 28630	Free	Fairfield Inn & Suites Hickory	https://www.facebook.com/Chester-Family-Light-Show-1969388303375501/

11) Woodberry Lights

Woodberry Lights is a holiday display in Wilmington, North Carolina. It’s become a favorite for local families and travelers during the Christmas season.

The show happens at a private home, and, honestly, it’s kind of a small landmark now. Each year, the house and yard get covered in thousands of lights and festive decorations.

You can view the display from your car or walk up the driveway for a closer look. There’s no ticket or set admission fee, so it’s a pretty affordable night out.

The neighborhood is residential, so I always try to park respectfully and watch for any posted signs. For updates and new photos, I check their Facebook page every season.

Rating: 4.9 (63 reviews)
Location: 3220 Kirby Smith Dr, Wilmington, NC 28409
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December (annually)	Evenings	3220 Kirby Smith Dr, Wilmington, NC 28409	Free	Booking.com – Wilmington Hotels	Visit Website

12) Johnson Family’s Christmas Light show

I’ve seen a lot of holiday light shows, but the Johnson Family’s Christmas Light show in Cary, North Carolina, really sticks out for its tradition. It’s set up at a private home in a residential neighborhood—a special stop if you like homegrown decorations.

The Johnson family runs the show and they’ve been at it for several years now. Their yard and house get covered in all kinds of lights and decorations.

Locals come out every December, and a lot of folks return year after year. The event is free and usually open to the public after dark all through December.

Since it’s on a regular street, parking is pretty limited, so I’d suggest arriving early. If you’re coming from out of town, you can find hotels nearby like the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh/Cary I-40 (PNC Arena) on Booking.com.

Rating: 4.8 (32 reviews)
Location: 103 Chestone Ct, Cary, NC 27513
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December 1-31	After dark	103 Chestone Ct, Cary, NC 27513	Free	Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh/Cary I-40 (PNC Arena)	Visit Website

13) WRAL Nights of Lights

I checked out WRAL Nights of Lights in Raleigh and saw that it’s set up as a drive-through light show. The event happens inside Dorothea Dix Park, right by downtown.

Cars follow a planned route, and you can see all the displays from your vehicle. You don’t need to park—everyone just stays in their cars for the whole thing.

I drove past holiday lights arranged in different themes. The event feels very family-friendly and, honestly, it’s not too loud or overwhelming.

You have to buy tickets ahead of time, and they usually sell them by time slot. I’d definitely check ticket availability before you make any plans.

The show runs in December and sometimes they add special nights with extra activities.

Rating: 2.6 (90 reviews)
Location: 2105 Umstead Dr., Raleigh, NC 27603

Dates	Times	Location	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December (TBA 2025)	Evenings	2105 Umstead Dr., Raleigh, NC 27603	TBA (per car)	Hotels near Dix Park on Booking.com	Event Site

14) Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular

Last year, I went to the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular in Charlotte and walked along a half-mile trail with over a million lights. There were big holiday scenes, music, and even giant snow globes.

Families love coming back to see what’s new each season. This year, they added a glowing elf playground and an ice castle with a princess carriage.

Kids can try things like moon bounces and a snow tube slide. The paths are mostly concrete or decked, which is nice for strollers or scooters.

Santa shows up every night until December 23, and ballerinas perform on certain nights. You need to buy tickets in advance because some nights sell out.

They offer different ticket options, including VIP with a hot chocolate mug and access to a special lounge. Parking doesn’t cost anything, and food trucks rotate daily in the Holiday Village.

The event runs from early to late December. I’d check their schedule if you want to catch a special show or performance.

Rating: 3.4 (15 reviews)
Location: 11611 N Community House Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website Address
Dec 5 – Dec 29, 2024	5:30pm – 10:00pm nightly	11611 N Community House Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277	$10-$39 depending on date, time, and ticket type	Hotels near Ballantyne, Charlotte (Booking.com)	https://ncholidaylights.com/

15) Maple Ridge Lights

I stopped by Maple Ridge Lights in Burlington, and it’s a favorite for Christmas light shows in North Carolina. The show happens at someone’s house, but people drive in from all over to watch.

A lot of families come back every year since the display changes a little each time. The lights sync up with holiday music, which I thought was a nice touch.

Most visitors stay in their cars to watch the show, which is great on busy nights or when the weather isn’t the best. You don’t need tickets, but they sometimes accept donations to keep the lights going for next year.

The display usually runs from late November through December. You can check their Facebook page for nightly updates, special hours, or weather delays.

There aren’t any extra activities or food stands, so I’d suggest grabbing a bite at a nearby restaurant before or after your visit.

Rating: 4.8 (178 reviews)
Location: 1112 Maple Ridge Dr, Burlington, NC 27217
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Late Nov–Dec 2025*	Evenings*	1112 Maple Ridge Dr, Burlington, NC	Free*	Book here	Visit Website

*Dates, times, and admission may vary—see Facebook page for updates.

16) Duncan Family Christmas Light Show

I checked out the Duncan Family Christmas Light Show in Lincolnton, North Carolina. A local family sets up a huge display and programs the lights to music.

The show sits right along NC-182, so you can just drive by and enjoy it from your car. There aren’t any vendors or big crowds, so it feels a lot more relaxed than the bigger events.

Families with kids might find it especially easy to enjoy at their own pace. Parking is usually along the roadside nearby.

I’d look up their Facebook page or check local listings for show dates and hours, since those can change each year.

Rating: 5 (2 reviews)
Location: 3970 NC-182, Lincolnton, NC 28092

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website Address
December (varies)	Evenings (varies)	3970 NC-182, Lincolnton, NC 28092	Free	Hotels near Lincolnton	Not available

17) Lights on Lakewood at Mirror Lake (aka Mirror Lake Lights)

When I visit Lights on Lakewood at Mirror Lake, I get a chill, drive-through Christmas lights experience. This Fayetteville neighborhood really goes all out.

Families decorate their homes and yards with bright lights and fun figures. The whole area feels full of community spirit.

Neighbors keep adding new decorations and themes each year. The drive is simple, and it’s easy for visitors of any age.

It’s not hard to find the location from main roads in Fayetteville. You’ll usually park along the side streets, and traffic crawls so everyone can enjoy the view.

It does get busier closer to Christmas, so I try to go earlier in December.

Rating: 4.8 (12 reviews)
Location: 2206 Lakewood Ct, Fayetteville, NC 28303

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December (check local info)	Evenings after dark	2206 Lakewood Ct, Fayetteville, NC 28303	Free	Booking.com – Fayetteville, NC	—

18) Holly Jolly Lights NC

I visited Holly Jolly Lights NC in Pinehurst and found it’s a small, community-driven light show. The event happens in a neighborhood and welcomes people of all ages.

The lights line a residential street, so you can walk or drive by and check out the decorations. The whole thing feels really family-friendly.

There are thousands of colorful lights in all kinds of shapes and figures. Holiday music plays in the background, and it just adds to the festive mood.

The organizers keep things running smoothly and make sure everyone stays safe and has a good time.

The show usually starts late November and runs through December. You can park along the street, but I’d get there early if you’re going on a weekend.

It’s totally free—no tickets or reservations needed—so you can just show up and enjoy.

Rating: 5 (20 reviews)
Location: 135 Fox Run Rd, Pinehurst, NC 28374
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Nearby Hotel (Booking.com)	Website
Late Nov–Dec	Evenings	135 Fox Run Rd, Pinehurst NC	Free	Browse Pinehurst Hotels	Visit Website

19) A Christmas Wonderland NC

I went to A Christmas Wonderland NC, which takes place on a family farm in Clinton. This holiday attraction features drive-through light displays and festive scenes.

The lights cover a big part of the property, creating all kinds of holiday setups. Families and visitors of all ages can enjoy the experience.

I tuned my car radio to a special station for Christmas music while driving through. The show usually opens in late November and runs through December.

Parking and entry are organized right on-site, and they allow both cars and small buses. Staff help guide traffic and answer any questions.

There are places nearby to grab food before or after your visit. I’d check their official website for the latest hours, dates, and ticket details since those can change every year.

You’ll find motels and hotels in Clinton just a short drive from the farm.

Rating: 4.9 (161 reviews)
Location: 2914 Bud Johnson Rd, Clinton, NC 28328
Contact: (910) 818-2240
Website: Visit Website

Dates (2025)	Times	Location	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Late Nov–Dec	Evenings	2914 Bud Johnson Rd, Clinton, NC 28328	Varies	Booking.com – Clinton, NC	achristmaswonderlandnc.com

20) The Heindel House – Halloween and Christmas lights

I swing by The Heindel House in Raleigh every year. It’s become a sort of tradition, honestly, since it’s a pretty famous house light display.

The owners go all out, covering their home and yard with loads of Christmas lights and quirky decorations. You’ll spot neighbors and even folks from out of town slowly cruising by to catch the lights before Christmas.

You’ll find this place tucked in a suburban neighborhood. Everyone parks on the street—there’s no special lot or anything.

They don’t charge admission, which is a nice touch. Since this isn’t some big commercial show, I’d say it’s best to enjoy the lights from your car or maybe take a quick stroll on the sidewalk.

The owners usually flip the switch right after Thanksgiving, and the display keeps glowing through December.

People love the Halloween lights too, but honestly, the Christmas display steals the show every winter. I’ve noticed families with little kids usually show up early in the evening—probably to dodge the crowds.

Rating: 4.8 (34 reviews)
Location: 8501 Sleepy Creek Dr, Raleigh, NC 27613
Contact: (252) 578-4973

Dates (2025)	Times	Address	Cost	Where to stay nearby	Website
Late Nov – Dec 2025	Sunset-10 PM	8501 Sleepy Creek Dr, Raleigh, NC 27613	Free	Hotels near Raleigh, NC	N/A