‘Tis the season to be jolly, to explore the lights at night, sing some carols, and make family memories. In the Northern Hemisphere (closest to the North Pole), the days of December are short on day-light and long on the darkness of night. As a result, lighting up the night sky with seasonal decorations, lights, and sometimes music, has become tradition in neighborhoods, gardens, towns, and villages. Whether you visit a nearby neighborhood, purchase tickets for events and light-viewing, drive a bit, or drive some distance, you’ll discover fun for all ages in these locations.
Neighborhoods
Maybe you live in one of the Treasure Valley neighborhoods that goes all out with Christmas decorations. Maybe your house is the only one on the block that is lit to celebrate. Homes in the hills, in the valley, on the Boise Bench, along avenues and boulevards, are decorated for the season. Contests are even held in some subdivisions, with some including judging and prizes. One of our favorite family activities has been to have Oma, Opa, and the elementary school aged kids pile into the SUV for a winter wonderland tour of neighborhood lights. Let us know your favorite, well-decorated neighborhood.
An annual holiday walking favorite. The Garden Aglow runs Wednesdays through Sundays, from November 29th to December 31st. The 2024 event includes a Winter Market from December 13th to the 24th, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. each night. The magic of the multitude of lights delights all ages. The space is accessible (with some effort, but doable) and meant for all to enjoy. There are firepit and holiday drink sipping spaces for story-telling and events. Some of our family members even held a December wedding event during COVID – which was a magical night for the city - which allowed 10 individuals in attendance. Tickets are required and can be purchased online.
If you haven’t been to Caldwell, winter is a great time to go. The Christmas lights along Indian Creek are charming. Ice skating in the square is both fun to do and fun to watch. Joy for all ages abounds at the outdoor musical instrument play area, nestled along the creek year-round. The sites, people-watching, children giggling - all deliver smiles. The light areas are free to stroll through. Ice skating, food, and some activities are fee-based.
Throughout December, the holiday spirit settles over Sun Valley, transforming the area into a Winter Wonderland. Whether you go up for a weekend to enjoy skiing and the sights, or just up for a night to explore the lights, you’ll have a grand time.
Melodies sung by the Sun Valley Carolers as they stroll through Sun Valley Lodge’s European-style Holiday Market stalls add cheer. Enjoy the ceremoniously lit Christmas Tree at the Lodge and the torchlights that parade down Dollar Mountain on Christmas Eve, along with the fireworks that signal the coming of Christmas Day. From photo-ops with Santa Claus to festive movie nights at the Opera House, you and your family can experience the timeless magic of the holidays. Tickets are needed for some activities such as skiing, movies, food, and more.
This purposefully designed Bavarian Village in the mountains of Washington state brings Christmas joy year-round with the Nutcracker Museum. For Christmas, Leavenworth’s half-a-million lights go up December 1st and stay up and lit through the end of February. People journey from all over the country to experience the tucked-away beauty of Leavenworth at Christmas. Reserve lodging early at this popular destination. You’ll enjoy snow, shopping, museums, food, and more with all that Leavenworth has in store.
In this season of darkness, look for the lights brightening night skies. Holiday lights bring seasonal cheer and a happy way to prepare for the lengthening of days as we welcome a new year. Near or far, snuggle into those warm blankets and take a road trip to enjoy the season’s outdoor warmth, charm, and lights!
Grab a hot chocolate thermos, pile in some blankets, go for a drive. Make Christmas light touring an annual tradition.