This Christmas season, you might want to check out a spectacular light display featuring over 48,000 lights and counting. What makes this display even more special is the fact that most of the Christmas decorations are homemade. From the 8-foot candy canes and giant snowflakes to the oversized gift boxes, shooting stars, and the “JOY” sign, the families behind this display have put in a lot of effort to make it as unique as possible. Every year, they add more homemade decorations to keep the display fresh and exciting for visitors. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for some festive cheer this holiday season!
Check out these best Christmas light displays in Orange County in 2023.
Nellie Gail Rd
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Nellie Gail Ranch is a renowned area in Orange County known for its beautiful Christmas lights. Many homes are tastefully decorated, while a few have decorations that resemble fancy hotels. A few homeowners have also decorated their homes with grand 2-story tall Christmas trees that can be seen through the windows.
Apart from the gorgeous Christmas lights, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city below. Unlike some other areas, there was no traffic on a Saturday night. Cars respectfully cruise around the neighborhood, allowing people to enjoy the lights without hassles. This place deserves a 10/10 rating for being the best Christmas lights viewing experience!
However, pictures don’t do justice to the beauty of this place. So, visit Nellie Gail Ranch to see the stunning Christmas lights for yourself!
Mission Viejo CA
The Mission Viejo Holiday Home Decorating Contest is an annual event that encourages the entire community to participate by decorating their homes for the holidays. This contest is one of Orange County’s most extensive neighborhood holiday light extravaganzas, where dozens of homes throughout the area participate.
The winner of the contest receives a “Winner” sign on their lawn, and their decorated home is featured on the holiday light directory on the event website. There are numerous categories to enter, making it a very enjoyable drive around the neighborhood.
2970 Primrose Ave,
Brea, CA 92821
The Eagle Hills neighborhood in Brea has been renowned for its stunning Christmas lights display for many years. This yearly tradition attracts numerous visitors from nearby communities who come to relish the festive atmosphere. If you’re planning to visit the Eagle Hills Christmas Lights, it’s vital to be a good neighbor and contribute to making the experience unforgettable for everyone. Visit their Facebook page for updates.
W Mission Rd
Corona, CA 92882
This is a great place in Corona to drive through during the holiday season and see the fantastic display of lights on people’s houses. I highly recommend it, but be sure to come early as there may be some traffic. The area consists of a group of houses that are beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and decorations. You will find lights on houses, trees, cars, and even cardboard Christmas cutouts. There’s a lot of Christmas cheer and many people and cars around. You can either drive down the streets or get out and walk through the area. I believe they even sell hot chocolate on weekends! This is the best Christmas light display in Corona, so you don’t want to miss it. Visit their Facebook page for updates.
23932 Barton St.
Lake Forest 92630
If you’re looking for some festive holiday entertainment, you should definitely check out the Nightmare Before Christmas light show and holiday light show in Lake Forest. This spectacular light display features over 18,000 LED/pixel lights that are synchronized to the music, creating a magical and mesmerizing experience. The show runs from December 1 to January 7, so you have plenty of time to catch it.
The theme for the light show is inspired by the popular animated movie, The Nightmare Before Christmas. You’ll be thrilled to see the colorful lights dance to the music, which includes both themed songs from the movie and traditional holiday songs. The houses are decked out in festive holiday decor, and you’ll be delighted to hear motion-activated bells playing Christmas music.
This light show is considered one of the best Christmas light displays in Lake Forest, and it’s definitely a must-see attraction for the holiday season. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the magic and wonder of this spectacular light show. Bring your family and friends and enjoy the dazzling display of lights!
309 Palm St. #A
Newport Beach, CA 92661
Balboa Island is a must-visit destination during the Christmas season due to its awe-inspiring displays of Christmas lights. The entire community comes together to participate in a friendly competition, and you won’t want to miss it! Bundle up and take a walk around the island to witness the residents’ impressive light displays. While you’re here, make sure to grab dinner and a drink at one of the fantastic restaurants located on the island and around Newport Beach.
You can’t fully experience the holiday season in Newport Beach without taking a stroll around Balboa Island to admire the Ring of Lights. Bundle up and walk by over two dozen extravagantly decorated waterfront homes on Balboa Island. These homes, which compete in an annual competition, are themed and animated and showcase their color and creativity.
You can also book a Newport Bay Holiday Lights Cruise between December 1 and December 31 in 2023. The cruises allow you to take in the amazing light displays and holiday décor of bayfront estates and landscapes competing in the “Ring of Lights” competition. Millions of lights and elaborate decorations transform Newport Bay into a magical holiday experience. On the Holiday Lights Cruise, you’ll tour the bay viewing these incredible displays, along with many of the boat parade entrants that also tour through Newport Bay. The holiday cruises offer 85% of what the parade offers, without the huge numbers of people and parking challenges. Visit the website for more details.