Best PNW Towns with the Most Festive Holiday Lights

The Pacific Northwest shines during the holiday season, with towns across the region transforming into twinkling wonderland.

From classic displays to unique, community-driven light shows, these PNW towns are known for their festive holiday lights that make the season extra magical.

Leavenworth, Washington

The Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth goes all out for the holiday season with its Village of Lights festival.

Over half a million lights illuminate the town’s charming storefronts, mountains, and streets, creating a magical holiday experience. With carolers, sledding, and cozy hot cocoa stands, Leavenworth is the ultimate holiday light destination.

Portland, Oregon – Peacock Lane

Every December, Portland’s Peacock Lane turns into a dazzling display of holiday lights. Each house along the street is decked out with unique decorations, from classic nativity scenes to quirky inflatables.

The pedestrian-only nights are especially popular, making it easy to stroll and admire the festive homes.

Bellevue, Washington – Garden d’Lights at Bellevue Botanical Garden

Bellevue’s Garden d’Lights is a botanical wonderland transformed into a holiday spectacle. Thousands of lights create intricate displays of flowers, animals, and landscapes, all illuminated in vibrant colors.

This event is beloved for its creative light arrangements and serene atmosphere, providing a peaceful and festive outing.

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – Holiday Light Show

Though slightly outside the PNW region, Coeur d’Alene’s Holiday Light Show is well worth the visit.

Over 1.5 million lights illuminate the lakefront, with displays that include a towering tree, animated figures, and a Journey to the North Pole cruise, where Santa makes a special appearance. This lakeside setting adds a magical touch to the holiday lights.

Spokane, Washington – Riverfront Park

Spokane’s Riverfront Park transforms into a winter wonderland each December. The Pavilion is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a dazzling display across the river.

The park’s holiday events include ice skating and light shows, making it a festive gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Shore Acres State Park – Coos Bay, Oregon

Shore Acres State Park hosts a breathtaking holiday light display along the Oregon coast. The park’s gardens are transformed with hundreds of thousands of lights, depicting everything from ocean scenes to garden landscapes.

The coastal views and creative displays make Shore Acres a unique holiday experience for families and nature lovers.

Ashland, Oregon

Ashland’s downtown area lights up with the annual Festival of Light celebration. The town’s Plaza is adorned with over a million lights, creating a festive atmosphere that complements Ashland’s artsy, small-town charm.

From cozy shops to holiday-themed performances, Ashland offers a warm and inviting holiday experience.

Anacortes, Washington

Anacortes hosts its Winter Wonderland Walk each December, featuring beautiful lights and decorations in Washington Park.

Visitors can walk through the illuminated trails, with seasonal displays and festive lights bringing the forested paths to life. This community-driven event is beloved for its small-town charm and scenic location.

Stanwood, Washington – The Lights of Christmas at Warm Beach

Warm Beach Camp in Stanwood, Washington, is home to The Lights of Christmas, one of the largest holiday light displays in the state.

With over a million lights, holiday performances, and Santa visits, this family-friendly event offers a full holiday experience. The lights cover buildings, trees, and pathways, creating a festive wonderland that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.

Mendocino, California – Festival of Lights at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens hosts its Festival of Lights, transforming the gardens into a colorful, illuminated paradise.

Coastal views combined with creative displays make it an enchanting holiday experience. The gardens offer a relaxed and scenic light show that’s ideal for families and holiday lovers.

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These PNW towns go above and beyond to create festive holiday light displays, turning the winter season into a colorful celebration. Whether you’re looking for a small-town charm or a grand display, each of these destinations brings the magic of the holidays to life with twinkling lights and joyful ambiance.