It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to kick off the festive season than meandering through the city/county and checking out the amazing light displays?! As in years past, we have a list of where to go to see the most amazing and decked-out places in the area. ENJOY!
We’ll start out with our own backyard.
Winter Nights at Prairie Farm! Stroll the illuminated Prairie Farm path. It’s always so beautiful. Remember to remind your kiddos that the animals will not be present. Free hot chocolate will be served on Friday & Saturday evenings. Great opportunities for holiday photos are everywhere along the path.
Lighting up the Croft– The wonderful, synchronized light show at the residence at 22 Greencroft Drive in Champaign is back in all its glory! Great neighborhood to drive through as well. As always, be respectful of the homeowners. Take a look between the hours of 4:30- 10:30 p.m.
The Manchester House, located in the Glenshire neighborhood, is completely decked out for the holidays with exciting inflatables (80+), music, and lights! They’ve even added a Ferris Wheel! This is a can’t-miss home on your light display stop! 1411 Manchester Drive, Champaign.
This holiday tradition has been celebrated for more than 50 years! The Illini House on Candlestick Lane! The lighting takes place on the second Saturday in December, which is December 10th. After that this wonderful time-honored tradition will stay lit from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. nightly through New Year’s Day. Grant Place is located between Cottage Grove & Philo Roads North of Florida Ave.
Night Lights in the Garden- Lake of the Woods- Mahomet– This winter wonderland of glowing lights will begin on December 3rd in the gorgeous Botanical gardens! Candy cane posts and ropes will guide your path through the whimsical garden. The Grand Opening will be on December 4th and Hot chocolate will be plentiful as well as Gingerbread kits which you can register for ahead of time. Great photo ops here.
One of the BEST holiday traditions…The Clark Griswold House in Mahomet!! Lights are literally everywhere. There is also Alvin and the Chipmunks singing, a toy shop, Santa’s Village & so much more! Another must-stop on your list! 701 N Timberview, Mahomet.
The Hodges Christmas Light Show– 106 Red Bud Ct, Mahomet. This is known as the MARVELous Superhero and Santa extravaganza! It is decked out all over the house and yard. Do you have family members who love their superheroes? Then you don’t want to miss this! Plus, the area is filled with other homes close by offering great holiday decorations!
Get out and have some fun gazing at all the amazing decorations! Applaud the homeowners for the extraordinary amount of time spent putting together these spectacular displays, and get that holiday spirit soaring!
We’re just beginning the holiday month, so stay tuned to my blog and Facebook page for many more festive events and happenings around the Champaign area!