Let’s be real: if you’ve driven around your neighborhood searching for festive vibes but found nothing but a sad, singular string of lights on a balcony, it’s time to get out of dodge. Grab your keys, grab your bestie (or your bae), and prepare for a road trip worthy of a Mariah Carey Christmas special. It’s time for a Tacky Light Tour.
Why Look for the Best Holiday Decorations?
Why bother hunting down the wildest, brightest, most energy-grid-stressing displays? Because the holidays are about spreading joy, cheer, and maybe a little bit of judgment. Whether it’s a simple setup or a full-blown dazzling spectacle synchronized to techno remixes of “Jingle Bells,” holiday decorations have a magical way of making us feel things. They bring back childhood memories, create new ones, and frankly, they just look fabulous on Instagram.
If you’re ready to see who in America is single-handedly funding the electric company this December, a Tacky Light Tour is your new holiday tradition. We’re talking about homes that meet the strict criteria of having at least 20,000 lights dangling from every possible surface. We’re talking about displays so bright they can probably be seen from the International Space Station.
Ready to find the best spots? Here’s where you need to go to get your glow on.
Dyker Heights, Brooklyn: The Heavyweight Champion of Christmas
If you want to see holiday lights that truly do the most, look no further than Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. This neighborhood is legendary for turning quiet residential blocks into a glowing winter wonderland that screams “Look at me!” Expect rooftops decked out with thousands of twinkling lights, giant inflatable snowmen, and massive candy canes at every turn. It’s basically a friendly competition between neighbors to see who can make jaw-dropping displays that draw crowds from all over New York. The festivities kick off right after Thanksgiving, so you have plenty of time to stroll through this nonstop display of cheer.
Beyond the Big Apple: Where Else to Find the Tacky Magic?
If you’re not in New York, don’t panic. The Tacky Light Tour spirit is alive and well across the country and the globe.
- Las Vegas, NV: Of course Vegas does Christmas extra. Head to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway for “Glittering Lights,” a 2.5-mile drive-through spectacle. You don’t even have to leave your car to see the magenta arches and festive shapes. Grab some cocoa (or popcorn) at the gate and cruise through the desert night.
- Boothbay, Maine: “Gardens Aglow” at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is the largest light display in New England. It’s a sparkling wonderland of native plants wrapped in their holiday finest. Plus, Wade the Moose is there. Who doesn’t love a moose?
- Denver, CO: The Denver Botanic Gardens hosts “Blossoms of Light,” a synchronized LED extravaganza. Walk through tunnels of light and themed gardens that are perfect for that holiday selfie.
- St. Augustine, FL: The “Night of Lights” transforms the historic district with millions of white lights reflecting off the water. It’s chic, it’s classic, and it runs until late January.
International Sparkle: Taking the Tour Global
Feeling bougie? Take your Tacky Light Tour international.
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Swap the parka for a swimsuit. Rio features the Festival de Presépios (nativity scenes) and a massive floating Christmas tree on the Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon.
- Santa Fe, NM: Okay, not international, but it feels like a different world. The “Farolito Walk” on Christmas Eve features thousands of paper lanterns and bonfires lining the adobe streets. It’s romantic, unparalleled, and parking is a nightmare (you’ve been warned).
- Salerno, Italy: The “Luci d’Artista” festival features illuminated lemon trees and artistic installations that light up the city from November through January.
- Vancouver, Canada: VanDusen Botanical Garden strings up over a million bulbs for its Festival of Lights. It’s a botanical winter wonderland that proves our neighbors to the north know how to party.
What Else Can You Expect?
It’s not just about the lights, honey. These destinations know that a true queen needs entertainment (and snacks).
- Ice Skating: From Rockefeller Center to pop-up rinks in Europe, strap on those skates and try not to fall.
- Markets: Shop for artisan gifts and handcrafted ornaments while sipping spiced wine (mulled wine is a lifestyle).
- Food & Drink: Hot chocolate, apple cider, roasted chestnuts, and street food. Come hungry.
- Live Shows: Choirs, parades, and even fireworks in places like Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens.
When to Go?
Most of these dazzling displays run through early January.
- Dyker Heights: Post-Thanksgiving through New Year’s.
- Las Vegas: Thanksgiving through Christmas.
- Boothbay: Mid-November to New Year’s Eve.
- International Spots: Generally late November to early January (check local dates so you don’t show up to a dark park).
So, skip dinner at Aunt Betty’s this weekend. Instead, hop in the car (or on a plane), punch in a destination on your Tacky Light Tour map, and go find the best, brightest, and most over-the-top decorations the world has to offer. Happy decorating and safe travels, you fabulous globetrotters.