Magical Lights of Lincoln is an annual event that takes place in downtown Lincoln, Nebraska. It is a beautiful display of holiday lights that attracts many visitors from the surrounding areas. The event features over 100 blocks of dazzling lights, illuminating the city streets and creating a magical atmosphere. The reviews of Magical Lights of Lincoln are overwhelmingly positive. Many people describe it as a must-see event during the holiday season. Visitors are enchanted by the stunning light displays and the festive ambiance it creates.

6 Best Holiday Light Shows Illuminating Chicago This Year

The most spectacular light shows taking place around Chicago in some of the city's zoos, botanic gardens and other magical locations.

Many in Chicago look melancholically back on summer around this time of the year, just as many eagerly await the beauty of fall and the jubilance of early winter. Chicago is about to reach its peak aesthetic elegance with fall foliage sweeping through the city, but despite the awe-inspiring autumnal hues, it always feels like they come and go in the blink of an eye.

Luckily, the ephemerality of fall is alleviated by the exhilarating events, the holidays, and the annual beloved Christmas light shows in Chicago. From Christkindlmarket locations to the city’s winter ice rinks, Chicago has some of the best festive fun in the country.

Of all the incredible winter events, however, the light shows in Chicago are one of our most treasured traditions. Keep scrolling to get a head start and reserve tickets to the light shows you’ve got your eyes on before they all go.

Visitors are enchanted by the stunning light displays and the festive ambiance it creates. They appreciate the effort put into the event and commend the organizers for creating such a beautiful spectacle. People particularly enjoy walking through the downtown streets and taking in the lights at their own pace.

1. The BMO Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Of course, a roundup of Christmas light shows in Chicago can’t go without mentioning the city’s iconic Magnificent Mile lights and parade, so where else to start?

Over one million lights will begin illuminating The Magnificent Mile on Saturday, November 18th, marking the beginning of the holiday season.

The stretch of Michigan Avenue between Wacker Drive and Oak Street is one of the most magical places to embrace the festive cheer, with more than 200 glistening trees offering a phenomenal spectacle in the heart of Chicago.

The event-filled Saturday begins at 11:00 a.m. at Lights Festival Lane (401 North Michigan Avenue) with a free-admission outdoor festival. A festive thoroughfare of booths and family activities, including photos with Santa Claus, a holiday DJ, and more, will be taking place for any crowds that come out to embrace the festive cheer before the fun-filled day culminates in the iconic Tree-Lighting Parade, which will take off down North Michigan Avenue at 5:30 pm.

When is it running?

🗓️ The Wintrust Lights Festival will occur on Saturday, November 18, 2023.

When do tickets go on sale?

Tickets are not needed.

More information can be found at themagnificentmile.com/lights-festival.

Families with children are especially fond of the event, as it provides a great opportunity for them to bond and create lasting memories. Many parents express how their children's faces light up with joy as they explore the magical lights. Another aspect of the event that receives praise is the variety of activities and entertainment available. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, visit Santa Claus, and indulge in delicious food from local vendors. The combination of lights, music, and food creates a festive atmosphere that adds to the overall experience. One of the highlights of the event is the lighting ceremony, where the mayor or a local celebrity flips the switch to illuminate the city with thousands of lights. Attendees mention that this moment is truly magical and marks the official start of the holiday season for them. Moreover, the event is commended for its accessibility and inclusivity. The organizers ensure that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy the lights comfortably. They provide accessible routes and prioritize safety, making it an enjoyable experience for everyone. In conclusion, the Magical Lights of Lincoln is a highly regarded event that brings joy and wonder to the community. Visitors appreciate the beautiful light displays, the festive ambiance, and the variety of activities available. It is a cherished tradition that brings people together during the holiday season and creates lasting memories for all who attend..

Reviews for "Unveiling the Magic: A Review of Lincoln's Mesmerizing Light Display"

1. John - 1 star - I was really disappointed with the Magical Lights of Lincoln. The lights were dull and barely even noticeable from a distance. The whole event felt poorly organized and there were long lines for everything. I expected to be enchanted by the lights, but instead I was just left feeling underwhelmed. I wouldn't recommend wasting your time and money on this event.

2. Sarah - 2 stars - The Magical Lights of Lincoln were a letdown for me. The lights themselves were not impressive or creatively designed. It felt like I was driving through a generic neighborhood with a few strings of Christmas lights here and there. The event could have been much more festive and magical, but it fell flat. Overall, it was a lackluster experience that I wouldn't bother attending again.

3. Michael - 2 stars - I had high hopes for the Magical Lights of Lincoln, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to the hype. The light displays were okay, but nothing extraordinary. What really bothered me was the congestion and lack of traffic control. It took me ages to get in and out of the event, and I spent more time sitting in my car than actually enjoying the lights. I think the organizers need to work on their logistics in order to create a better overall experience for attendees.

4. Emily - 3 stars - While the Magical Lights of Lincoln had its moments, it didn't fully impress me. Some of the light displays were beautiful and well-done, but they were overshadowed by the excessive number of sponsor signs and advertisements scattered throughout the event. The constant bombardment of commercialism took away from the supposed magic and wonder of the lights. It would have been better if the organizers focused more on creating a cohesive and enchanting experience rather than using it as a platform for advertising.

A Night of Enchantment: My Experience at the Lights of Lincoln