The U.S. boasts a dazzling array of holiday light shows, each offering a unique and festive experience for groups
In 1882, Edward Johnson, a colleague of Thomas Edison, hand-wired 80 red, white, and blue bulbs and strung them around his Christmas tree in New York City. This is considered the first known electrically illuminated Christmas tree. The idea soon caught on and soon municipalities began creating public light shows as a part of the holiday season.
These light shows offer a fantastic opportunity for corporate events to create memorable experiences and achieve business goals. Here are some of the most spectacular displays across the country:
Northeast
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree (New York City): The iconic tree is the definition of a bucket list must-see.
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights (Bronx, New York): This immersive experience features animal lanterns, animated light shows, and festive entertainment.
Hershey Sweet Lights (Hershey, Pennsylvania): This 2-mile drive-through experience features over 600 animated displays synced to festive music.
Southeast
Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home (Theodore, Alabama): This enchanting display features over 1,100 set pieces and 3 million lights spread across 65 acres.
Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens (Pine Mountain, Georgia): This magical drive-through experience features 10 million twinkling lights and larger-than-life Christmas scenes.
Midwest
Lights Under Louisville (Louisville, Kentucky): This unique underground light show takes you on a 30-minute drive through a cavern filled with over 3 million lights.
West
Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (Las Vegas, Nevada): This dazzling drive-through display features over 5 million LED lights and festive music.
Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden (San Diego, California): This immersive light show features a one-mile trail through the gardens with stunning light displays and artistic installations.
Southwest
Trail of Lights at Zilker Park (Austin, Texas): This beloved Austin tradition features over 2 million lights, 90 lighted displays, and festive entertainment.
These are just a few of the many incredible holiday light shows across the United States. No matter where you are, there’s sure to be a dazzling display nearby to get you in the holiday spirit.
Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.
