Chico Christmas Lights Guide: Where to Find the Best Neighborhood Displays
(Originally published )
Many of Chico’s neighborhoods glow with strands of holiday lights throughout the winter season turning evening walks and drives into something a little more magical.
Experience the magic with a curated guide to the best Christmas light displays.
The Map
Stay on track with a comprehensive Christmas Light Tour map, provided by Sanderson Real Estate.
North Side
The north side of town is a heavy hitter for holiday displays, featuring some of Chico's most long-standing shows.
The "crown jewel" of Chico Christmas lights. Nearly every house on this loop participates.
Pro Tip: Tune your radio to 91.1 FM to enjoy lights synced to music
Traffic Note: Expect a wait during peak weeks; the line often stretches back to Keefer Road!
A scenic alternative to Highway 99, Garner Lane is part of the experience, with pockets of beautifully decorated homes lining the route.
Why go this way: Festive displays appear on both sides of the road, making it worth driving one side on the way in and the other on the way out.
Pro Tip: Add Keefer Road to your route. Several standout homes sit along the way.
These connecting neighborhoods offer beautiful, shimmering displays tucked away from the main roads. Access them via Kittyhawk Drive or Garner Lane.
You will want to carve out plenty of time to explore Amber Grove, where nearly every street gets in on the holiday fun.
From Denali Drive and Mesa Verde Court to Crater Lake Drive, Zion Canyon Court, and Mill Creek Drive, the neighborhood is full of displays worth slowing down for.
This development is perfect for a family walk to see the sparkling inflatables up close.
Located at Enloe Health, this park is beautifully lit by the hospital for the community. It’s a serene spot for a quick photo op.
South Side
Head south for a mix of high-tech light displays and historic charm.
Just beyond city limits and about a 10-minute drive down The Midway, Van Ness Way is well worth the short trip.
A full winter wonderland cul-de-sac, packed with lights, large animated displays, and over-the-top holiday décor in every direction.
Pro Tip: Look for the yard signs as you enter! This neighborhood often hosts a micro-broadcast on FM 99.5, so you can listen to synchronized music while you drive the loop.
Traffic Note: Van Ness is a private road with a "P" shape layout. It can be hard to see the lights from the main highway, so make sure to turn in and drive down the road a bit before it opens up.
One of Chico’s most close-knit neighborhoods, The Barber, is an ideal place for an evening stroll.
You’ll often find families out walking together, taking in the glowing front gardens and playful inflatables.
East and West Sides
On the east side of town, the Cal Park, Whitewood, and Hancock Park neighborhoods have pretty holiday displays. In the Cal Park area especially, certain home lights shimmer and reflect off the water, adding an extra layer of magic.
On the west side, Big Chico Creek Estates puts on a lovely show along the creek.
This neighborhood is home to some of the oldest trees in Chico, making it an ideal spot to park and stroll with the family beneath a softly lit, decorated canopy.
Chico’s holiday lights are a labor of love from our local residents.
As you enjoy the magic, please drive slowly, dim your headlights for pedestrians, and help keep the season bright for everyone!
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