Holiday Lights Trail

Discover the best Christmas light displays around Elizabeth City, NC from the dazzling Dances Bay neighborhood to the glowing trails at Merchants Millpond, and the festive South Mills showcase. Plan your perfect holiday lights driving tour through Northeastern North Carolina.  Elizabeth City shines like no other during the holidays. From waterfront twinkles to country roads lined with festive displays, the region transforms into a winter wonderland each December. Whether you’re a local seeking a night of cheer or visiting for a holiday getaway, there’s no shortage of bright, family-friendly fun.

This year, three standout stops make for the ultimate Holiday Lights Trail, each with its own sparkle.

Location: 112 Dances Bay Road, Elizabeth City, NC (about 15 minutes from downtown Elizabeth City)
Dates & Hours: Nightly from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, 5–10 p.m.
Admission: Free; donations welcome

What started as a neighborhood tradition has grown into one of the region’s most spectacular holiday light shows. Drive or walk through streets lined with glittering displays, animated figures, and thousands of colorful bulbs synchronized to Christmas music. Weekends often feature visits from Santa, food vendors, and even a petting zoo for the kids. Grab your cocoa, tune your radio to the holiday station, and soak in the glow.

Drive through or enjoy parts on foot while listening to festive music.  This stop is a must-see for any holiday lights tour.

Light Up the Millpond – Merchants Millpond State Park

Location: 176  Millpond Road, Gatesville, NC (about 40 minutes from downtown Elizabeth City)
Dates & Hours: Fridays & Saturdays, Nov. 29 – Dec. 21, 5–8 p.m.
Admission: Free; donations appreciated

For a scenic, peaceful experience, head to Merchants Millpond. Each December, the park transforms into a glowing wonderland along the road to the visitor center. Local civic groups decorate trees and trails with thousands of twinkling lights that reflect beautifully on the millpond waters. It’s a drive-through experience that feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. Pack snacks, cue up your favorite Christmas playlist, and enjoy this serene seasonal gem.

South Mills Christmas Lighting Spectacular

Location: 178 Nosay Road, South Mills, NC (25 minutes from downtown Elizabeth City)
Dates & Hours: Nightly, 5:30–10 p.m. through the holidays
Admission: Free; donations accepted

South Mills goes all out with holiday cheer. This local favorite features classic Christmas scenes, giant inflatables, and thousands of synchronized lights set to music you can tune into from your car. You can also walk parts of the display for an up-close festive experience. A delightful way to end your light-tour evening.

Plan Your Elizabeth City Holiday Lights Route

For the best experience, start your tour in Elizabeth City and loop north or east: The full route may take around 2+ hours, depending on how long you stop at each display. Perfect for a cozy, festive evening drive!

Plan Your Holiday Getaway in Elizabeth City

From twinkling lights to Christmas parades and waterfront celebrations, Elizabeth City shines all season long. Make it a weekend getaway: expereince the 5th annual Hot Cocoal Crawl, enjoy Christmas in Elizabeth City, explore local shops, enjoy local dining, and stay in one of our cozy inns, Airbnbs, or hotels. Plan your trip at visitelizabethcity.com  and experience the warmth, wonder, and lights of the holidays in the heart of the Albemarle.