6 Enchanting Christmas Light Displays In North Carolina That Are So Worth The Drive

The countdown to Christmas is starting to get close - and it's time to make the most of the season. While you might have visited these best Christmas lights in North Carolina already, there are plenty more in the state. From an amazing, award-winning house display, to a downtown quaintly decorated - these eight more North Carolina Christmas lights displays are a must-visit.

1. Outer Banks 'Christmas House'

For 36 years Ann and Jim Poulos have been decorating their house to the nines for Christmas. In 2005 they were even the winner of the Today show's "Best Decorated House in America." Today, locals and travelers venture to their house to see the intricate light display, decorations, and Christmas music blasting on the loudspeakers. You'll find it on Ocean Acres Dr. in Kill Devil Hills. Check out The Christmas Shop in Manteo while you're in the Outer Banks!

2. Happyland Christmas Lights

At the Moores', the amazing light show is in memory of Rick Moore, who lost his life too young, and always wanted "more Christmas lights." Everyone in Raleigh enjoys making the drive to check out the amazing display featuring blow ups, blow molds, wire sculptures, a real fire truck, and several handmade wooden displays. You'll find it at the corner of Penny Road and Huntingwood Drive.

3. Michael Shoaf's Christmas Lightshow to music

What's better than Christmas - the music that truly 'rings' in the holiday! You'll find the spectacular display at 3518 Donnigale Avenue.

4. Piper Lights

On seven acres, a true winter wonderland unfolds, and you can even catch Santa on Wednesdays and Sundays. Visit the display at 5725 Fixit Shop Road in Wake Forest, NC.

5. High Country Lights, Ennice

*UPDATE: The High Country Lights Display has relocated to Galax, Virginia.

Over a thousand lights set to music played right from the radio station - High Country lights has been named "Best Animated Tour" for three years by TackyLightTour.com, truly one of the best Christmas light displays in North Carolina!

6. Lights on the Neuse

This 'Christmas lights theme park' is minutes from Raleigh and located on the beautiful setting of the Neuse River.

7. Pilot Mountain Christmas

*UPDATE: Unfortunately, the 2021 was, in fact, the final year for this light display.

In what's said to be the final year - Pilot Mountain Christmas is a classic light display in its 50th year. There's a nativity scene, decorated pathways, a snow-making machine, and hot stand.

8. Beary Merry Christmas

In honor of New Bern's bear legacy - Beary Merry is the 'town mascot.' While the festive celebration has passed, you can still enjoy the lights that glitter up New Bern until Christmas Eve.

I can't think of a better way to count down the days to the season - what are some of you favorite light displays in North Carolina?

For more ways to make the most - how about these charming Main Streets?