A Magical February Awaits at Nevada’s Winter Festival

February is the season for love! After all, it’s the month when we celebrate Valentine’s Day. So, it’s no wonder that there are chocolate tastings and festivals in Nevada to commemorate the holiday. You may know Ethel M as the chocolate factory with the Christmas light display, but did you know the beloved candy store hosts a romantic festival as well? That’s right!

This February, head to Henderson for the 12th Annual Lights of Love Festival in Nevada. It’s sure to charm the hearts of all lovers celebrating romance this year, and it’s great for families and Galentine’s Day too!   

Beginning nightly from February 6 to February 16, 2026, Ethel M Chocolates Factory will be hosting its annual Lights of Love festival. The event will be held inside Ethel M’s three-acre garden, which is “Nevada’s largest cactus garden and one of the most prolific collections of its kind.” 

For the festival, the garden will be dripping with pink, purple, and red lights, all to celebrate couples who are in the mood for romance. You’ll experience pure magic while walking through this serene desert oasis, gazing at the sparkling lights.

This event is not only for sweethearts, but it also has something for everyone. Don’t have a special someone? No worries, grab your girlfriends and walk through the garden to celebrate Galentine's Day in a unique way. Or perhaps take the little ones or your family members to enjoy the festivities.

If you’re there with your sweetheart or your girlfriends, book the chocolate and wine tasting experience, where you can indulge in curated decadent chocolates and a selection of wine. This experience lasts about an hour and promises perks and special gifts, which may include delicious chocolate-dipped strawberries or a lovely rose. The tasting ticket also grants you free access to the light show in the cactus garden.  

In addition to the pretty illuminated garden, the family and kids can enjoy touring the chocolate factory to see the process of candy making. Plus, there will be hot chocolates and other treats for sale at the festival. The kids will especially love the tour and, of course, the sweet treats too! One thing to note is that the garden is wheelchair accessible, so everyone can enjoy this unique light festival. 

Touring the chocolate factory is free for all, but there is a small $3 fee to access the Valentine’s Day-themed light show. All the proceeds will be donated to charities in Nevada, so you’ll help to support a good cause. You’ll be delighted to know that kids under 2 and adults over 65 are completely free. So bring them along to enjoy the light show and treats. 

Before you leave the festival, be sure to stop in at the candy store to buy chocolates to enjoy at home. This delightful Lights of Love festival in Nevada is a fun and unique way to celebrate love and family in the month of February. Don’t miss it! And if you're looking for even more ways to sweeten up your Valentine's Day, you'll want to head over to our itinerary planner for nearby recommendations for things to do, see, and eat!