Everyone has favorite holiday traditions that are unique and special to their family, whether it be baking cookies, blasting carols, watching classic holiday films, or a multitude of other things. Me, being the Christmas fanatic that I am, I do all of those things and more, but one of my favorite yuletide activities has always been driving around and getting to see the most outstanding, dazzling, heart-warming, perfect Christmas lights in our Philadelphia area.

This was a painstakingly difficult decision, because any exhibition of Christmas spirit is good, but here are my top 5 picks (in no particular order) for the best and brightest (literally) local Christmas light displays!

1. The Drelick’s Christmas Lights (1800 Dutchman’s Circle, Harleysville, PA)

This North Penn family’s fantastically festive house was featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” in December of 2015. ( You can read more about that here: https://www.knightcrier.org/news/2015/11/20/local-family-set-to-inspire-holiday-joy-on-national-stage/ ) I was not aware of this display until I saw their appearance on “Light Fight”, but now, I never go through a holiday season without visiting here once. Or twice. Or three times. From the ‘Peanuts’ gang to Mickey and Minnie to their signature red bells, The Drelick’s truly offer something for everyone.

2. Peddler’s Village (Lahaska, PA)

I love all of the events that Peddler’s Village has throughout the year, and have written about them before, but the Christmas display they illuminate annually is easily the highlight of the year. With over a million of beautiful dazzling lights, this is absolutely the kind of event to take the whole family to; you can get some cocoa, have a great meal, and create timeless holiday memories. Read more here: https://www.peddlersvillage.com/festivals/grand-illumination-celebration 

3. Light Up A Life (1320 E. Butler Pike, Ambler, PA)

PSA: This home is going to be featured on Monday, December 17th’s episode of ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight”! It is well deserving, because this display is truly an experience! When you visit this extraordinarily bright home, you can really get (somewhat) up close and personal with the lights, as you can walk down the driveway and through the front yard. Read more here: http://www.acteonlightupalife.com/ 

4. Lights on Main (128 Stevers Mill Road, North Wales, PA)

As Buddy the Elf famously stated, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” This light display will certainly spread some cheer, as its lights are synchronized to go along with the tune of favorite Christmas carols! And, you know it is the real deal, because recently, Fox29 featured this home in their segment A Very Kelly Christmas.

5. Macy’s Christmas Light Show (Macy’s Department Store of Philadelphia)

As much as I love all the entries in this list, I would say that Macy’s is the ‘Must See in Your Lifetime.’ The famous Wanamaker building is beautiful, and the classic show is just spectacular. Especially for families with young children, you’ll be amazed by the dazzling lights and heart warming and almost nostalgic Julie Andrews narration. It is practically hard to describe, so you have to venture into Philly to see this one for yourself, folks! Read more here: https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/events/holiday-light-show-at-macys-center-city/