7 Christmas Light Displays in Northern California That Are Pure Holiday Magic

The holiday season in Northern California is a magical time. One of the best ways to experience that magic is by taking a tour of the spectacular Christmas light displays in the region. From cozy neighborhoods to citywide light extravaganzas, here are seven of the best Christmas lights in Northern California that are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. So, if you've been searching for, "Christmas lights near me," we've got you covered.

1. Annual Trucker's Christmas Parade in Eureka

This annual tradition of Christmas lights in Eureka, California will continue on Dec. 14 with a truck parade around Eureka. The parade begins at 6 p.m. at Redwood Acres Fairgrounds.

2. Redding Garden of Lights

Walk through 10 acres of light displays at Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding. These are some of the most festive Christmas lights in Northern California! Follow the paths that wind through the botanical garden and see the beautiful displays surrounded by the curated gardens. Tickets are now on sale for this fun family-friendly event of Christmas lights in Redding, California.

3. Redding Lighted Christmas Parade

The 2024 Redding Lighted Christmas Parade takes place on Dec. 7. Anyone can attend this free parade in downtown Redding! This long-running Redding tradition brings the community together and gets everyone in the Christmas spirit. It's one of the best Christmas light displays in Northern California.

4. Nevada City Victorian Christmas

Nevada City is a lovely town any time of year, but at Christmas, this historic mountain town really shines! Nevada City's Victorian Christmas is a multi-day event in December. The downtown turns into a walkable street fair, and every shop is covered in lights and Christmas decor. It really is a sight to see all the Christmas lights in Nevada City, California! Check out the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce website for this year's celebration.

5. Imaginarium Sacramento

Looking for Christmas lights in Sacramento, CA? Tickets are now on sale for Imaginarium at Cal-Expo in Sacramento. Opening on Nov. 22 and running through Jan. 5, Imaginarium is a dazzling display of lights. With more than 5 million lights, this is the largest holiday light festival in Sacramento. Spend an evening exploring the various holiday light displays in Northern California

6. Hangtown Christmas Parade

Placerville, which used to be called Hangtown during the Gold Rush era, is hosting the Hangtown Christmas Parade on Dec. 8, 2024. Watch the Christmas floats go down Main Street, and take a walk through the old town to see all the beautiful decorations and Christmas lights in Placerville, CA. Visit the Hangtown Christmas Parade website for further details.

7. 43rd Annual Lighted Boat Parade in Stockton

This unique parade in Stockton showcases creative light displays on boats that sail through the Stockton Deep Water Channel. The parade takes place on Dec. 7, 2024, starting at 5 p.m. Boats will begin upriver to Windmill Cove and make their way past downtown Stockton Marina and Weber Point around 6:30 p.m., and end at Light 39. The parade can be viewed from anywhere on the waterfront. Head to the Visit Stockton website for more.

No matter where you live in Northern California, there are probably stunning Christmas light displays within a short drive of your home. Whether you prefer the charm of a local neighborhood or the grandeur of citywide displays, these Christmas light displays in Northern California will have you feeling very festive. So, grab your loved ones, bundle up, and set out to experience the magic of Northern California's holiday lights.

With the holiday season approaching, it's time for gift-giving! Check out our Holiday Gift Guide for Travelers for some unique ideas.