Grab the family and get in the car, we’re going to look at Christmas lights! Whether you do this every year or you’re looking to start a fun, new family tradition, we’ve put together some tips that will make it a night to remember.
I have many fond memories of hopping in the car with my mom on some snowy eve and driving around our neighborhood to look at Christmas lights.
There was always the neighbor who went all out, and you wondered what their electric bill looked like. (As a Gen-Xer, I have enjoyed both incandescent and LED Christmas lights.) There was a house that had the Peanuts characters made from plywood cutouts and painted in detail. And there was always the argument discussion over what was better: clear or colored lights.
I’ve continued this tradition with my own kids and hope they will do it with their kids, too, one day.
Neighborhood vs. Light Display
Many areas have Christmas light displays set up that you can drive through for a per-car fee, and while these are wonderful, there’s something magical about seeing the variety and creativity of your fellow neighbors. Plus, we’re all looking to save a few bucks this time of year.
Whether this is your first time around the block or you’ve been doing this for a while, we’ve put together a few tips to make your annual Christmas light ride extra fun and cozy.
Set Yourself Up for a Cozy Ride
Nothing kills the mood more than climbing into a cold car, so warm up the car first before you head out on your ride. Have each passenger bring a blanket to snuggle up with in the car. (Bonus points if you pop the blankets in the dryer for a few minutes just before you get on the road!) You can really get in on the cozy vibes by wearing pajamas, too.
Seasonal Snacks and Sips
Bring some tasty Christmas cookies to munch on during the ride or pop some popcorn. Put hot cocoa in travel mugs. Don’t forget the marshmallows! Or you can opt for my favorite – hot apple cider. (Here’s my own personal mulling spice recipe if you want something a little extra.)
Create a Family Playlist
You can absolutely listen to Christmas music on the radio, but to make your car ride even more memorable, put together a special family playlist beforehand. Have everyone select their top three favorite Christmas songs, create your playlist and put it on shuffle. Singing along in the car is always encouraged.
Turn it Into a Game
If you want an evening that’s a bit more interactive, turn your family expedition into a game! Create a Bingo-style list of items to find, such as: an inflatable Santa, a house done all in red lights, a Grinch decoration, someone who has decorated their mailbox, etc.
Or have people find Christmas items alphabetically. Angel, Baubles, Christmas Tree, etc. Whoever gets to Z first wins. (Better hope someone has a decorated zebra in your neighborhood.)
You can just enjoy the fun or gift a small prize to the winner, like a gift card, an extra stocking stuffer, etc.
Map Out a Route Beforehand
Another great way to make the evening memorable is to check local Facebook or neighborhood groups for “Best Holiday Light Displays.” Many towns have these pages where locals can check in and leave a photo and address of where they saw some great Christmas lights. Checking these is a great way to help plan out a route that ensures you get to see some fun lights.
Choose a few specific neighborhoods where you know people go all out with lights. Often, when one house sets up something spectacular, it brings out the competitive spirit in their neighbors, and you get some great light displays close together.
Ask around, friends, family and coworkers are great sources for “there’s this one house you’ve got to see.”
Skip the Car and Walk
Whether you live in town or drive in and park, walking around neighborhoods is a wonderful way to enjoy the lights. This is by far our family’s favorite way of checking out Christmas lights. Dress warmly, sing some carols while you walk and silently wish a “wassail” to neighbors as you enjoy their display. One perk that you get from walking that you miss with a car is the ability to stand still and admire the lights. You even get a peek at Christmas trees in homes this way.
Leave a “Prize” for Your Favorite House
At the end of your Tour de Christmas Light, take a vote for the best house, then circle back and leave them a “prize.” Maybe a plate of homemade Christmas cookies, fill a Mason jar with Hershey’s kisses, or leave a $10 gift card for coffee, just something small. You can knock on their door and give them their prize or leave it on their porch with a note explaining why they got the treat. It’s a great way to spread a little extra Christmas cheer!
Add one or two of these suggestions to your annual festive light foray, and you’re guaranteed to create some wonderful holiday memories together.
