Embrace the magic of the holiday season by exploring the enchanting Christmas light displays scattered across Southern Illinois. Whether you're looking for twinkling lights, synchronized music shows, or a festive atmosphere, these dazzling displays are sure to bring joy to everyone. Start your adventure at Wonder Lights at Worldwide Technology Raceway, where millions of lights dance to holiday tunes. Then, head to Belleville for the Way of Lights at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, a breathtaking display that tells the Christmas story through light. Don’t miss the Fantasy of Lights in Centralia or Christmas in Carlyle, both brimming with holiday cheer. The Olney Christmas Lights Display and Christmas in Fairview Park offer even more festive fun, lighting up the night with a sparkle that’s perfect for families. So, gather your loved ones and make this holiday season unforgettable by basking in the glow of Southern Illinois' finest Christmas light displays.

Wonder Lights Worldwide Technology Raceway - Madison, Illinois

With over one million LED lights synchronized to both classic and modern Christmas music, Wonder Lights at Worldwide Technology Raceway offers a magical experience right from the comfort of your car. As you drive through the stunning light displays, the music plays through your car speakers, creating an immersive holiday atmosphere. Running from late November through the end of December, this enchanting light show is an event you won’t want to miss. Gather your friends and family, hop in the car, and make lasting memories as you enjoy one of the most spectacular Christmas lights displays in the Metro East this holiday season.

Way of Lights National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows - Belleville, Illinois

Each year during the Christmas season, the grounds of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows are transformed into breathtaking lights display that takes you on a journey through the biblical story of the Nativity, all from the comfort of your car. Your experience begins by driving through a mesmerizing tunnel of lights, setting the stage for the story that unfolds. As you wind through the beautifully lit grounds, you'll encounter scenes leading up to the gates of Bethlehem, culminating in a cave-like structure featuring statues of Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus in the manger. Towards the end of your drive, children can enjoy a ride on real camels in a specially designated corral area. Don’t miss this spectacular display of over 1.3 million multicolored Christmas lights, a true celebration of the holiday season.

Lebanon’s Winter Wonderland - Lebanon, Illinois

Whimsical, charming, and full of Christmas cheer, Lebanon’s Winter Wonderland lights display at Horner Park is one not to miss this holiday season. The park features a variety of decorations, from LED light displays to classic wooden Christmas scenes. The display begins at the entrance, where you can park and enjoy a show with LED Christmas trees playing both new and classic Christmas tunes right from your car. The park has a dedicated radio station that you can tune into while driving through and admiring the lights. Continue your adventure by winding through the park, circling the large pond, and viewing the Christmas displays scattered throughout. Before you exit, you'll pass through a festive Christmas lights tunnel. Don’t miss this enchanting holiday experience!

Coulterville Holiday Lights Displays - Coulterville, Illinois

Transport yourself into the magical, cheerful, and festive lights of the Christmas season with the Coulterville Holiday Lights Display. This small-town attraction draws visitors from all over Southern Illinois and is one of the best ways to celebrate the holiday season. The ½-mile winter walk features 450 wooden figurines, 15 animated scenes, and a 300-piece ceramic village. Visitors can also stroll through a recreation of classic board game scenes like Candy Land, complete with candy canes, gumdrops, and other sweet treats. Additional attractions include a Frozen-themed ice palace, a Ferris wheel in Playland, and Frosty Theater, which shows holiday movies every night. Don’t miss this charming display that's perfect for families and anyone looking to soak up some Christmas spirit!

Fantasy Lights - Centralia, Illinois

Presented by the Centralia Foundation, Fantasy Lights offers a magical holiday experience that beautifully blends whimsical fantasy with classic Christmas charm. Wander through the park to discover a stunning array of twinkling candy canes, a playful Santa enjoying a round of golf, and Rudolph basking in the glow of festive lights. This captivating display, featuring both imaginative scenes and traditional holiday imagery, is a must-add to your Christmas lights list this year. Gather your loved ones, warm up the car, and head to Foundation Park for an evening filled with sparkling lights and joyous holiday spirit. As you drive through the park, immerse yourself in the vibrant and diverse light displays that create a dazzling winter wonderland. Don’t forget to visit Santa at his charming cottage, where children can share their Christmas wishes and create magical memories.

Christmas in Carlyle

Every holiday season the City Park in Caryle undergoes a drastic transformation that sees the normal piece of public land turned into a winter wonderland! The accompanying light display, dubbed “Christmas in Carlyle” is a stunning spectacle you won’t want to miss. As dusk falls, the entire park comes alive with a vibrant array of Christmas lights that shine brightly, creating a magical atmosphere for all to enjoy. Wander through the illuminated pathways and take in the breathtaking display that features holiday themes. The display will illuminate the park throughout the Christmas season, remaining open until January 7th. Make sure to visit Christmas in Carlyle to immerse yourself in the festive lights, and perhaps catch a glimpse of Santa. This enchanting holiday event is perfect for creating cherished memories with family and friends and celebrating the season in style. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the joy and wonder of Christmas in Carlyle!

Olney Christmas Lights Display

Immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of Christmas at Olney’s Christmas Lights Display in City Park. As you stroll through the park, you'll be captivated by a dazzling array of festive lights and enchanting displays that truly bring the holiday spirit to life. Each corner of the park offers its own unique holiday charm, from twinkling light formations to whimsical holiday scenes. Gather your friends and family for a memorable outing, enjoying the cheerful ambiance, seasonal music, and sparkling decorations. Make sure to take a leisurely walk, savoring every moment of this magical experience. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the season together, create lasting memories, and bask in the festive glow of Olney’s Christmas Lights Display. This enchanting event is the perfect way to embrace the joy of the holidays and make the season bright for all ages.

Trees on the River - Hutsonville IL

Join us for the 14th Annual Christmas on the River in Hutsonville, Illinois, taking place on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving. The town will be aglow with unique and special live Christmas trees available for purchase. Children can delight in meeting Santa and sharing their Christmas wishes, while a festive holiday-themed movie will be shown for all to enjoy. Food trucks will be on hand to satisfy your appetite after strolling through the beautiful Christmas lights. To keep warm in the cooler weather, gather around a cozy bonfire, where you can relax, chat, and soak up the festive atmosphere. Don’t miss this enchanting celebration of the holiday season!

Christmas in Fairview Park

 Discover the magic of the holiday season with Christmas in Fairview Park light display. This new tradition, which began in 2020, was created to bring fresh holiday cheer and magic to families and friends. The park features a beautifully lit walking path that invites you to explore all 40 acres of stunning Christmas displays. As you stroll through the park, you'll be immersed in a captivating array of festive lights and decorations, making it a perfect outing to celebrate the season. Embrace the joy and wonder of this enchanting display and make new holiday memories with loved ones.