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Your Guide to the Western Piedmont's 2024 Best Holiday Light Displays

Bundle the kids in the car, grab the hot cocoa, and head out to explore!

December 9, 2024

Looking for the best holiday light displays in the Hickory - Western Piedmont area this season? We've got you covered! Whether you're in search of twinkling neighborhoods, extravagant home setups, or breathtaking community displays, this guide will help you find the most dazzling spots near Hickory to enjoy with your family. Grab some hot cocoa, bundle up, and prepare for a magical holiday adventure!




Hickory - Western Piedmont's Top Holiday Light Displays πŸŽ…πŸŽ„

Here’s a roundup of the must-see light displays in the area for 2024:

1. Chester Family Light Show

πŸ“ Location: 1350 Saviour Ln, Granite Falls, NC 28630
πŸ•’ Hours: 6:00p - 9:00p
πŸ’΅ Cost: FREE
🎁 What Makes It Special: This family puts on an amazing annual light display! They have over 170k RGB pixels individually controlled using over 510k channels of synced music! They plan to run through the New Year!

2. Zootastic Christmas Wonderland of Lights 

πŸ“ Location: 448 Pilch Road, Troutman, NC 28166
πŸ•’ Hours: Sunday - Thursday 6:00p - 9:00p, Friday & Saturday 6:00p - 10:00p
πŸ’΅ Cost: $10-15 per person
🎁 What Makes It Special: The zoo is proud to bring back its annual Christmas Light Show where you can visit the animals and even SANTA for just $10! This year, they have added a brand-new optional Nighttime Drive-thru Safari trail for just $5 more per person! This event runs through Christmas Eve.

3. Chetola Festival of Lights 

πŸ“ Location: 185 Chetola Lake Drive, Blowing Rock, 28605
πŸ•’ Hours: 5:00p - 10:00p
πŸ’΅ Cost: FREE
🎁 What Makes It Special: Chetola Resort invites you to enjoy thousands of dazzling illuminations throughout the resport. As you drive or stroll around Chetola Lake, view glittering ice skaters, "Rudolph" reeling in a big fish, strolling carolers, and many more captivating holiday scenes. This event remains open through Blowing Rock WinterFest. 




Map of Hickory - Western Piedmont's Best Holiday Light Displays πŸŽ„πŸ—ΊοΈ

Want to make your light tour in our area even easier? Check out this interactive map featuring some of the best decorated homes in our community! Plan your route and see all the most festive houses in one magical evening.

Western Piedmont's Holiday Lights Map:

How to Use the Map:

  1. Click the link above to open the interactive map.
  2. Plan your route by zooming in to see house locations and read above descriptions.
  3. Drive, walk, or bike to enjoy the displays — and don’t forget to take pictures and share the holiday cheer!

Submit a Home for Our Hickory - Western Piedmont Lights Map!

Know a house or display that should be included? We’re always looking to feature more fantastic light displays within a short drive of Hickory! Submit a nomination HERE or email Shelbyt@macaronikid.com. Be sure to include the address and a brief description of what makes the display special.




Tips for Enjoying Light Displays in Hickory - Western Piedmont

  • Plan Ahead: Check operating hours and plan your route in advance to avoid long lines or missing the show.
  • Bring Snacks: Make it a family night with festive snacks and drinks.
  • Respect Neighbors: For home displays, be mindful of residents by parking responsibly and keeping noise levels down.
  • Share the Joy: Take pictures and share your favorites on social media — tag Macaroni KID Hickory - Western Piedmont, along with the homeowners or organizers (if possible!)

Why We Love Holiday Light Displays in Hickory - Western Piedmont ✨

There's something so magical about seeing the Western Piedmont lit up with holiday cheer. Whether you're driving through neighborhoods or visiting large-scale displays, it's a tradition that brings joy, togetherness, and a festive spirit to our community. Start planning your holiday light tour in our area today! 🌟