From drive-through shows to DIY walking tours, one thing’s for sure: it’s BRIGHT out there! If you love holiday lights as much as we do, then we’ve got some recommendations you won’t want to miss. These are some of our favorite spots for catching holiday festivities and decor, all either in ILM or within an hour’s drive.
Enchanted Airlie
This magical evening is so sought after that tickets sell out almost immediately after going live! Still, we couldn’t not mention this local favorite event. Because, let’s get something straight: it’s always a good idea to visit Airlie Gardens. The winter season has a stillness that we’re obsessed with. Oh, and about a million festive lights, too!
Visit in December to see the private gardens completely transformed. These winding paths are decked out in a Christmas celebration that kids and adults love. Find your favorite sights (like the twinkling crab pots and their famous oak trees aglow), the singing Christmas trees, and a beer refreshment tent.
If you didn’t snag a ticket this season, don’t fret! There are tons of other fabulous holiday shows that make our eyes twinkle, so keep reading!
Poplar Grove’s All is Bright
This display in Poplar Grove wows its ticket holders every year! Stroll through tens of thousands of lights across the grounds and take full advantage of their festive photo ops and Santa’s mailbox.
But there’s plenty more to do. Guests roast marshmallows at the campfire, watch a holiday movie, tour a decorated manor, and visit the Holiday Hootenanny Tent. Oh, and there’s also a balloon-extraordinaire, vintage carnival games, and food trucks. In short, it’s a whole evening of fun for the whole family. Learn more here.
Lake Linda’s Lights
This drive-through display is completely free to attend, and began as a way for one family to spread Christmas cheer. They wanted holiday lights near Surf City for their children to see…so they made their own! When the founder’s mother wanted her neighboring camper wrapped in lights, one thing led to another. Pretty soon, there were thousands of lights shining through town. Mission accomplished!
We’re not the only ones who have taken notice. In 2020, ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” featured Lake Linda’s display in an episode. You can stream their season (8) on Hulu!
When you visit, don’t forget to leave a donation. Collections go to local organizations that support this family’s mission to keep their faith at the center of Christmas. Learn more about Lake Linda’s Christmas Lights here.
Mike’s Farm Festival of Lights Hayride
The drive to Beulaville is totally worth the twinkling hayride at Mike’s Farm. It’s thirty minutes through the woods, all of which has been lit in stunning holiday scenes. Hayrides run every night from now until the 28th, 6 to 9 PM. No reservations are required, but they will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!
There are also tons of incredible holiday shows at Mike’s Farm, which we definitely recommend checking out. While you’re there, be sure to browse for gifts and treats and save a spot at the buffet.
For a full list of events and a little help planning your trip, visit their site.
The Great Christmas Light Show
No advanced reservations needed, just a drive to North Myrtle Beach! The Great Christmas Light Show is celebrating its 10th year in action with more than two million holiday lights along a drive through North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex. They’ve got more than five hundred custom-made displays, and visitors can expect animated lights! After the show, we recommend parking your car and visiting Santa’s Village for hot chocolate and s’mores.
Battle of the Bulbs and the Wilmington Riverwalk
Looking for lights that keep it local? Check out our blog about the festive window displays downtown—part of the Downtown Business Alliance’s annual Battle of the Bulbs competition! We love to stroll around participating spots and enjoy the local glow. For a little twinkle over the water, you should meander to the Riverwalk. It’s stunning this time of year!
