As the weather chills and evenings grow longer, Puyallup, WA, begins to glow with holiday spirit. Strings of lights hang from streets and rooftops, and seasonal displays brighten front yards and public spaces. For many residents, the arrival of these lights means it’s time to hit the road with family or friends, sip hot drinks, and rediscover favorite spots under holiday glow.

This guide points to some of the most celebrated light shows in and around Puyallup — from creative residential displays to large-scale events. Whether readers are in the mood for a walk-through experience or a drive-by from the warmth of their car, there are plenty of festive options nearby.

Pop into a few neighborhoods, plan an outing with friends, or bring along a camera — the season’s displays offer more than decoration. They capture community spirit during one of the most joyful times of the year.

Colorful Community Displays on Local Streets

Puyallup features a variety of residential displays where neighbors get creative with lights each year. At 15320 76th Ave Ct E, known as South Hill Lights, this display shines nightly with about 5,000 animated lights. The show runs from roughly 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and lights are synchronized to music via 89.5 FM, giving visitors a cheerful soundtrack as they drive by.

Another charming spot is 2202 31st Ave SE, which hosts The Funks Light Show. The display includes approximately 5,000 lights and features a 55-minute synchronized playlist broadcast on 91.9 FM. The effort is entirely handmade, giving it a personable, homegrown feel that many locals appreciate.

Smaller but still festive displays also appear at locations such as 110 9th Ave SW, 9212 58th Ave Ct E, 1720 Amber Blvd, 10713 185th St E, and 11104 172nd St Ct E — each adding its own style of lighting to brighten up the community.

Driving through these neighborhoods offers a relaxed, grassroots way to enjoy the season. With families and friends tucked into warm cars or strolling at a leisurely pace, it can feel like a holiday tradition in its own right.

Holiday Magic at Fairgrounds and Large Events

For those looking beyond residential streets, Holiday Magic at the Washington State Fair Event Center delivers a full-scale holiday experience. Running on select dates each December, the festival invites guests to walk through immersive light tunnels, explore Santa’s Village, enjoy live entertainment, and even skate or ride a merry-go-round under twinkling lights.

Unlike drive-by light displays, this is a fully walkable environment — ideal for families or groups wanting to soak in the atmosphere. From cozy fire pits to holiday rides, Holiday Magic offers something for visitors of all ages.

The festive ambiance and variety of activities make this event a highlight of the holiday season in Pierce County. It’s an opportunity to step out, spend time with loved ones, and embrace the celebratory spirit in a way that goes beyond twinkling lights.

Drive-Through Events Just Minutes Away

If staying warm and comfortable is a priority, nearby drive-through events offer a great alternative to walking tours. For example, Fantasy Lights in Spanaway is a widely celebrated drive-through light display, featuring over 300 detailed displays along a two-mile route. Visitors tune their radios and enjoy synchronized music as they drive through hundreds of thousands of lights.

This kind of event works exceptionally well for families, groups, or anyone looking for a cozy way to celebrate — all from the comfort of their vehicle. Tickets are required and often sell out on busy nights, so early planning is a good idea.

Behind the Scenes: People Who Make the Lights Shine

Significant events like Holiday Magic and Fantasy Lights rely on the hard work of many people — from event planners and electricians to maintenance crews and volunteers. They assemble light tunnels, set up displays, manage lighting sequences and music, and ensure the experience is safe and smooth for attendees.

On the neighborhood side, many homeowners put in long hours programming synchronized animations, climbing ladders to string lights, and building handmade props. Those efforts often bring joy not only to their own family but also to hundreds of visitors who drive by each night.

Guests who pause to offer thanks — or even bring a small donation if requested — help show appreciation for the work behind each display.

Capturing the Lights on Camera

Taking photos of holiday lights can be challenging, but with a few simple techniques, residents of Puyallup, WA, can create beautiful memories. Use a tripod or set your camera on a stable surface to avoid shaky images, especially when exposure times are long. Lowering exposure slightly preserves color and prevents lights from over-blowing.

Looking for reflections — on wet pavement, car windows, or even garage doors — can add mood and create interesting compositions. Walking through light tunnels or positioning the camera beneath the arches of light also offers compelling perspectives that truly showcase the display.

If you’re shooting with a smartphone, tapping to focus on a bright point and locking exposure can help capture vivid detail. Visiting at dusk instead of all night can also help — a bit of sky light balances the scene, along with the glow of the displays.

Carrying Forward Holiday Community Spirit

Holiday lights around Puyallup, WA, and nearby areas go beyond decoration — they reveal community spirit. Whether it’s small households setting up lights for their neighbors, or significant events bringing whole families out, each display offers connection, warmth, and shared delight.

For those who return each year, there’s joy in spotting new touches: a different light pattern, new props, or updated music. For those who might contribute next season — whether by volunteering, decorating, or planning visits — there’s always a place to add something special.

As the season ends and the lights are packed away, the goodwill often remains. Compliments, quiet gratitude, or even a friendly wave help remind everyone that this festive glow comes from real people, working to brighten winter evenings for their community.

Sources: piercecountywa.gov, thefair.com, bestxmaslights.com
Header Image Source: bestxmaslights.com