Every year, the Las Vegas Motor Speedway transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland, offering one of the most magical holiday experiences in Southern Nevada. Glittering Lights, the city’s largest and most spectacular drive-through light show, draws thousands of visitors annually.
With over 5,000,000 twinkling lights illuminating a 2½-mile course, this event is the perfect activity for couples, families, and anyone looking to embrace the spirit of the season.
The Magic of Glittering Lights
From November to January, the Las Vegas Motor Speedway becomes the ultimate holiday destination. As you drive through the course, you’re treated to a breathtaking display of lights that weave together festive themes, classic holiday scenes, and innovative designs. The brilliant array of lights sparkles against the desert night sky, creating a dazzling atmosphere that feels straight out of a holiday storybook.
“As a mom, taking my children to Glittering Lights has become a cherished annual tradition. The moment we drive onto the course, their eyes light up with excitement. Hearing their giggles and gasps of awe as we pass each vibrant display is a reminder of the magic of the season.”
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, Glittering Lights offers something new each year. The creativity behind the displays is unmatched, with countless themes ranging from traditional Christmas imagery to playful designs that capture the whimsy of the holidays. Some displays even celebrate Las Vegas culture, adding a unique touch to the experience.
A Drive-Through Adventure for All Ages
The beauty of Glittering Lights lies in its accessibility. Families with young children can enjoy the lights from the comfort and warmth of their vehicles, making it an ideal outing during chilly winter evenings. Couples can soak in the romantic ambiance as the lights create a dreamy glow all around. For friends looking to create holiday memories, this experience provides endless opportunities for laughter, awe, and nostalgia.
And let’s not forget about furry friends! Glittering Lights is pet-friendly, so you can bring your dog along for the ride. Watching their excitement as they take in the sights adds even more joy to the experience.
Enhancing the Experience with Ho Ho Ho Radio
To set the mood as you journey through the glittering display, tune in to Ho Ho Ho Radio, a special station designed to complement the event. The station plays a festive mix of holiday classics and cheerful commentary, immersing you in the holiday spirit. Singing along to beloved carols while surrounded by millions of twinkling lights is a memory that will stay with you long after the season ends.
The Santa Tram: A Festive Highlight
For those who want to enhance their Glittering Lights experience, the Santa Tram is a must. Unlike the drive-through experience, the Santa Tram lets you enjoy the lights in an open-air setting, adding a layer of magic to your evening. Perfect for families and groups, the tram ride offers a different perspective on the dazzling displays, allowing you to fully take in the sights without the barrier of a car window.
Before boarding the Santa Tram, visitors can immerse themselves in a festive wonderland filled with activities and entertainment. Children will love the mini-train ride, which offers a delightful adventure scaled just for them. Fun games and holiday-themed photo opportunities ensure that everyone, young and old, stays entertained while waiting for their turn on the tram.
Santa Claus himself makes frequent appearances, wandering through the holiday-themed area to interact with guests. Whether it’s posing for photos or discussing wish lists, Santa’s presence brings a sense of magic to the entire event. Be sure to capture these moments to cherish forever!
Important Tip: Tickets for the Santa Tram often sell out, so it’s essential to purchase them in advance. Planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on this unique aspect of the Glittering Lights experience.
Snacks and Treats to Sweeten Your Visit
Before entering the drive-through course, visitors can indulge in a selection of festive snacks and drinks. From the comfort of your car, you can purchase steaming cups of hot cocoa, buttery popcorn, and a variety of sweet treats to enjoy during your journey. These snacks add an extra layer of coziness to the experience, ensuring that everyone stays warm and satisfied as they take in the dazzling light displays.
Giving Back to the Community
Glittering Lights is not just a feast for the eyes—it’s also an event with heart. A portion of the proceeds supports local charities and organizations, making it a meaningful way to celebrate the season. Over the years, the event has partnered with groups such as Speedway Children’s Charities, bringing joy and assistance to those in need. By attending Glittering Lights, you’re not only creating lasting memories but also contributing to a good cause.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your trip to Glittering Lights, it’s helpful to plan ahead. Here are a few tips to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience:
1. Purchase Tickets Online
Skip the lines and secure your spot by purchasing tickets online. General admission allows you to enjoy the drive-through experience at your own pace. For the Santa Tram, early booking is crucial as spots fill up quickly.
2. Arrive Early
Glittering Lights is a popular event, and evenings can get busy. Arriving early helps you avoid long waits and ensures you have plenty of time to enjoy all the festivities. If you want to get the full experience, going on a weekday will definitely provide you with a more relaxed experience and be much less busy than the weekend.
3. Dress Comfortably
If you’re planning to explore the Santa Tram area or participate in activities, dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Even though Las Vegas winters are mild compared to other parts of the country, the desert temperatures can still get chilly at night.
4. Bring Snacks and Drinks
While you’re allowed to bring your own snacks for the drive-through experience, it’s also worth checking out the food and beverage options at the event. Hot cocoa and holiday treats are often available, adding a cozy touch to your evening.
5. Pack Your Camera
With so many photo-worthy moments, from the light displays to Santa sightings, you’ll want to have your camera or smartphone ready.
6. Pickup Truck – A Bonus
If you drive a pickup truck, that is one of those experiences that can be handy, as you can let the kids sit in the back of the bed and enjoy the lights and the background music. The speed limit is 5 miles an hour, and we usually choose which adult will join them for the experience.
Important Tip: Tickets for the Santa Tram often sell out, so it’s essential to purchase them in advance. Planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on this unique aspect of the Glittering Lights experience.
What Makes Glittering Lights Unique?
Glittering Lights at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway stands out as a family-friendly tradition that captures the true essence of the holidays. The event combines the city’s flair for spectacle with the warmth and joy of the season, creating an experience that’s both grand and heartwarming.
The Glittering Lights is more than just a light show—it’s a celebration of the season, a chance to create unforgettable memories, and an opportunity to give back to the community. With millions of twinkling lights, festive activities, and the magic of the Santa Tram, this event is a must-visit for anyone in the Las Vegas area during the holidays.
So gather your loved ones, tune in to Ho Ho Radio, and embark on a sparkling adventure that will fill your heart with the joy of the season. Make this year’s holidays truly special by experiencing the wonder of Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Address:
7000 Las Vegas Blvd N,
Las Vegas, NV
89115
Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 4:45 PM – 9 PM
Friday – Saturday: 4:45 PM – 10 PM
Sunday: 4:45 PM – 9 PM
Phone:
(702) 222-9777
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