When you think about your childhood, what were some of your favorite times of the year? Odds are Christmas ranks pretty high on that list.
From snowball fights and sleigh rides to visiting Santa at the mall and begging Mom and Dad for that perfect gift, Christmas is the time where anything is possible.
Decorating the tree, wrapping presents, making a gingerbread house–some of these were most likely part of your family’s holiday traditions. And if your family was anything like mine, that included an annual trip to your local Christmas light show.
Blaring Jingle Bells and Rudolph, you would stare in awe at twinkling lights bringing the spirit of Christmas to life in front of you. Who knew that something so simple as a string of lights could create magic?
If you’re wanting to recapture some of that magic this year, here are some spectacular light shows to check out right here in Georgia.
1. Callaway Gardens – Fantasy In Lights
A full light and sound show, you won’t want the radio on for this one. Ranked as one of the best light shows in the world by National Geographic, Fantasy In Lights is a must see.
18 million lights depict everything from nutcrackers to the nativity. The light show isn’t the only thing to check out while there. Be sure to stop by the Christmas Village for pictures with Santa, a little Christmas shopping and something warm and tasty from the cafe.
2. Atlanta Botanical Garden – Garden Lights Holiday Nights
For six years now, Atlanta Botanical Garden has illuminated their garden in a unique way. Lights mingle with the plants, creating a sense of both whimsies and wonder as guests stroll through the grounds.
You’ll see favorites like the Tunnel of Lights or Orchestral Orbs, as well as Walk The Flames, a new display they plan on rolling out this year. You can also grab dinner beforehand at Linton’s, the onsite restaurant.
3. Stone Mountain Christmas
Stone Mountain is way more than just Christmas lights. If you feel like you’ve made a trip to the north pole don’t worry! You’re not alone.
In addition to over two million lights, you get to enjoy a sing-a-long train ride, live performances of favorites like The Christmas Carol, a nightly Christmas parade, and fireworks.
And if you’re looking for Santa, Stone Mountain is the place to find him.
4. Lake Lanier Islands – Magical Nights of Lights
For miles, you can enjoy twinkling lights for as far as the eye can see. You’ll drive over the snowflake bridge, watch the twelve days of Christmas play out before your eyes, and visit Santa’s workshop.
After the ride, indulge in roasted marshmallows, pony and carnival rides, Christmas shopping and more at The Holiday Village.
Worked on months in advance, this one is worth the drive from Atlanta–especially with a gorgeous lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains serving as a backdrop.
5. Christmas in Castille
Who says you have to go to a park for an awesome show? Christmas in Castille is a free residential Christmas light display in Alpharetta.
Once you pull up to the house, you’ll tune your radio to a local station and watch as the lights blink in tune to the song. With over 57,000 animated lights, it’s an impressive sight.
So there you have it. Five magical light shows to check out this holiday season. Let us know in the comments which one you plan on visiting this year.
And if you’re interested in building your own light show, click here to request your quote!