A vibrant Christmas light display on a hillside: a glowing nativity scene in a blue-roofed shelter, colorful figures, and illuminated palm-like trees at night.

The Magic is Back!

Magical Nights of Lights Returns

Experience one of the nation’s best Christmas light shows at Lanier Islands Resort! From November 15 to January 4, drive through six miles of animated, sparkling displays that bring the season to life. Twinkling lights, festive scenes, and magical moments await every carload—perfect for creating unforgettable memories. We are thankful to our Magical Nights of Lights sponsors, Coca-Cola and Georgia Power, for helping make this holiday tradition shine bright.

Pricing is per vehicle.

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A child excitedly points out Christmas lights while leaning out of a car window at night.
A festive display of holiday lights featuring a large illuminated rocking horse and decorated trees in a park setting.

The Experience

Start your holiday adventure at 5 PM each evening and drive through 6 miles of dazzling lights at Magical Nights of Lights! From shimmering displays to playful holiday scenes, every turn is filled with magic and nostalgia. Cozy up in your car, enjoy festive scenes at your own pace, and listen to Christmas favorites while you enjoy our Christmas light show. Fun for kids, couples, friends, and grandparents - make it a holiday tradition to remember!

A light display depicting the Eiffel Tower with roosters is set against a dimly lit background.
A car approaches a holiday light display featuring illuminated figures and decorations, including a snowman and swirling shapes, along a road.

Tickets & Details

Happening November 15 through January 4 from 5 PM to 10 PM.

Bring your loved ones and get ready to be immersed in 6 miles of holiday magic. Tune in to your favorite holiday music, and let the lights spark nostalgia and joy. Pricing is per vehicle.

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A whimsical moose-shaped mug contains a creamy drink, topped with whipped cream. A person in colorful attire is in the background.
A person dressed as Santa is playing a claw machine filled with stuffed toys at a venue.
A festive indoors event with people gathered, Christmas tree, decorations, and children in holiday outfits seen.

Holiday Headquarters at Game Changer

Step into a Christmas wonderland at Game Changer! Enjoy sparkling décor, Clark’s Holiday Pop-Up Bar with Moose Mug cocktails and a festive menu, outdoor firepits, fun and games. Laughter, festive fun, and unforgettable memories await the whole family!

Clark's Pop-Up Bar

A scenic sunset over a bridge with illuminated trees lining the road beneath a dramatic sky filled with scattered clouds.

Give Back Nights at Magical Nights of Lights

Experience the magic of giving back this holiday season at Magical Nights of Lights at Lanier Islands Resort. On select Give Back Nights, guests can enjoy special savings while supporting meaningful causes and community heroes. From discounts for seniors (65+), military members, first responders, and educators, to donation nights benefiting Toys for Tots and the Georgia Mountain Food Bank, each evening is a chance to spread joy while making a difference.

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Magical Nights of Lights Sponsors

The image shows the Georgia Power logo with a triangular design in red, blue, and green above the company name in black text.

Magical Nights of Lights is proudly powered by Georgia Power. Their sponsorship helps keep the holiday magic shining bright across Lanier Islands Resort, illuminating unforgettable moments for families all season long.

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The image shows the Coca-Cola logo in red text on a white background.

Magical Nights of Lights is proudly sponsored by Coca-Cola. Their partnership adds extra sparkle to the season, helping create festive memories and timeless holiday cheer at Lanier Islands Resort.

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Magical Nights of Lights FAQs

You've got questions? We've got answers!

  • Will Santa be there?

    Santa will be at Game Changer! Catch him at the end of the show on select nights - including Santa's Magical Arrival on November 29. Plus, he’ll be here December 2, 9 & 18 from 6–9 PM. You can also catch him at Breakfast with Santa on select dates.

  • What is Magical Nights of Lights?

    Magical Nights of Lights is one of the nation's most iconic holiday traditions, featuring miles of dazzling light displays, festive attractions, and seasonal cheer for the whole family. For the full experience after our Christmas light show, we recommend visiting License to Chill Snow Island and joining us in our Holiday Headquarters located at Game Changer (additional fees apply).

  • When does Magical Nights of Lights start?

    The event runs nightly from November 15 through January 4, including holidays.

  • What are the event hours?

    The light show begins at 5:00 PM and closes at 10:00 PM. Beginning at 4:00 PM each night, the Magical Nights of Lights surcharge at the gate goes into effect.

  • Where is it located?

    Magical Nights of Lights is located at Lanier Islands Resort in Buford, GA, just 45 minutes north of Atlanta.

  • How much are the tickets?

    Pricing for the Christmas lights show experience varies by vehicle size and date. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the gate.

  • Are tickets priced per person?

    No. Tickets for Magical Nights of Lights are priced per vehicle, unlike many other light shows.

    • Vehicles with up to 10 passengers: Standard Vehicle Ticket
    • Vehicles with 11 - 20 passengers: Shuttle Ticket - $100
    • Vehicles with more than 20 passengers: Bus Ticket - $250
  • Is parking included?

    Yes, parking is included once inside the resort.

  • How long is the drive-through show?

    The light show spans approximately 6 miles and features over one million lights.

  • How long does it take to go through the show?

    We recommend planning a minimum of 2.5 hours to enjoy the full Magical Nights of Lights experience, especially on busier nights. This allows time to experience the drive-through light show, play in the snow at License to Chill Snow Island, and warm up in our Holiday Headquarters at Game Changer.

  • What else can we do besides the lights?

    In addition to the light displays, guests can purchase tickets for License to Chill Snow Island to enjoy snow tubing, ice skating, carnival rides, and more. Dining options are available at several of our restaurants, and we strongly recommend visiting our Holiday Headquarters inside Game Changer for festive fun.

  • Can I get out of my vehicle during the show to take pictures?

    No. For your safety, guests are not permitted to exit their vehicles along the roadways during the Christmas lights show.

  • Can I bring my pet(s)?

    Pets are welcome inside your vehicle during the driving tour. However, for safety and health reasons, pets are not permitted in License to Chill Snow Island or any restaurants unless they are certified service animals.

  • Can I bring a trailer or have people ride in my truck bed?

    All guests must follow state and motor vehicle laws and regulations. Passengers are not permitted to ride in truck beds or trailers.

  • Are you open if it is raining, sleeting, or snowing?

    Yes. Provided that roadways are safe and navigable, Magical Nights of Lights will remain open during inclement weather. Please check our website or social media for the latest updates regarding potential closures for Magical Nights of Lights or License to Chill Snow Island.

  • What are the peak hours?

    The busiest hours for our Christmas light show experience are typically shortly after sunset through 8:30 PM.

  • Can we come by boat?

    Guests are welcome to arrive at Lanier Islands Resort by boat; however, transportation is not provided from docks to the light show entrance. There is quick access from the courtesy dock to our Holiday Headquarters located at Game Changer.

  • Do you provide overnight packages?

    Yes. Lanier Islands Resort offers several holiday packages with accommodations at Legacy Lodge, Legacy Villas, and our two-bedroom / two-bath LakeHouses. Visit our overnight packages page for details and special offers.

  • Can I host a group or corporate event?

    Absolutely! Lanier Islands Resort offers meeting spaces, venues, and dining options perfect for group outings, meetings, weddings, and holiday parties. As an added bonus for booking an event between November 15th and January 4th, your attendees get into Magical Nights of Lights for FREE! For more information, please contact our Sales Team at 678-318-2027.

  • Is Magical Nights of Lights wheelchair accessible?

    Yes. The driving tour around the Christmas lights show is fully accessible, and most other attractions have ADA access.

  • Can I take photos and videos?

    Yes! Photography and video recordings are encouraged. Share your experience on social media by tagging us @lanierislands and using #MagicalNightsOfLights or #TheMagicIsBack.

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