12-Days Till Christmas - Day 9
On the Ninth Day of Christmas ....
Driving Through the Neighborhood - A Free Light Show Just for You
Some of my favorite childhood Christmas memories aren't from expensive outings or elaborate activities—they're from simple drives through neighborhoods, eyes wide at the twinkling lights, warm from the car heater, and probably sticky from hot chocolate spills.
The Magic of Neighborhood Lights
Here in Palm Beach County, we're blessed with incredible holiday displays. From modest homes with tasteful white lights to houses that look like they're competing for a national prize (you know the ones!), our communities transform into winter wonderlands—even without snow.
What I love most about this tradition is its simplicity. No tickets to buy. No crowds to navigate. No schedule to keep. Just your family, your car, and the magic of Christmas lights.
Making the Most of Your Light Tour
Timing is everything: Head out right after dinner when it's fully dark but not too late for little ones. In Florida, that's usually around 7:00 PM. We've found that weeknights are less crowded than weekends—you can actually drive slowly without a line of cars behind you.
Create a game: Kids love a mission! Try these:
Count inflatable Santas (we've spotted as many as 47 in one neighborhood!)
Spot all the colors of the rainbow in lights
Find the most unique decoration
Create a scavenger hunt: Who can find a snowman? A nativity scene? Candy canes?
Rate houses on a scale of 1-10
Bring the cozy:
Fill a thermos with hot chocolate (or coffee for the adults!)
Bring marshmallows and candy canes for stirring
Pack some cookies or treats
Have Christmas music playing—our family's Spotify playlist has become its own tradition
Local Gems Worth Visiting
Every year, certain neighborhoods in Palm Beach County go all out. Drive through established communities where neighbors seem to have friendly competitions about who can create the most spectacular display.
And don't overlook your own neighborhood! Sometimes the best lights are right around the corner. We've made it a tradition to walk our immediate area first, then drive to see the bigger displays.
Beyond the Lights
Here's what really happens on these drives: conversations. Without phones (well, except for photos!), without distractions, just talking. Your teenager might actually tell you about their day. Your little one will point out every single light with breathless wonder. Your spouse will reminisce about their childhood traditions.
These car rides become time capsules. Years from now, your kids won't remember which house had the most lights—they'll remember feeling safe, warm, and together.
Make It a Tradition
Consider these ideas:
Visit the same route each year and watch how displays change
Take the same family photo at your favorite house every year
Let each family member pick one street to explore
End at a favorite spot for a treat (sometimes we hit up a drive-through for ice cream—because it's Florida!)
The Real Gift
The beauty of this tradition is that it costs virtually nothing—just gas money—but the memories? Priceless. It's a reminder that the best things in life really are free, and that Christmas magic doesn't require a big budget, just a willing heart and eyes to see the wonder all around us.
What's the most amazing Christmas light display you've ever seen? Do you have a favorite neighborhood you visit every year? Tell me in the comments—and if you're local, share your favorite Palm Beach County spots! We're always looking for new routes to explore.
