A Trio of Glittering Traditions: Las Vegas Lights Up for the Holidays
By Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine Staff
The holidays in Las Vegas are a spectacle of light, laughter, and local love. Beyond the glow of the Strip, three beloved attractions transform the desert into a winter wonderland; each offering a uniquely Vegas twist on holiday magic. Whether you’re after millions of twinkling lights, nostalgic rides, or a maze of illuminated wonder, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season.
Enchant Christmas at Las Vegas Ballpark
November 21 – December 28, 2025
Downtown Summerlin®
Returning for its fourth dazzling year, Enchant Christmas transforms Las Vegas Ballpark into a glowing holiday playground. With an all-new, never-before-seen theme, guests can wander through The World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, glide along the glittering ice-skating trail, and sip festive drinks while surrounded by breathtaking light sculptures.
This year promises even bigger and brighter experiences, according to Don Logan, President and COO of the Las Vegas Aviators®. “We expect this year’s Enchant to be a holiday home run for Las Vegas families,” he shared.
2023 Enchant Christmas at Las Vegas Ballpark
Enchant also offers private suites and customizable packages for holiday parties perfect for anyone wanting to make the season extra special. For tickets, event details, or booking information, visit EnchantChristmas.com.
Ethel M Chocolates’ Holiday Cactus Garden
November 6 – January 3, 2026
2 Cactus Garden Dr., Henderson
Each year, Ethel M Chocolates turns its 3-acre Botanical Cactus Garden into a radiant desert dreamscape adorned with more than a million twinkling lights. It’s a one-of-a-kind sight; cacti and succulents from around the world shimmering in holiday hues, set against the warmth of the Mojave night sky.
Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the glowing garden, meet Santa Claus, and indulge in Ethel M’s famous hot chocolate. Afterward, step inside the chocolate factory and flagship store to watch chocolatiers at work and browse a wide range of decadent gifts, or even create your own custom box of treats.
This year, a $3 entrance fee per person is required, with half of all proceeds going to Help of Southern Nevada and Three Square Food Bank to further their missions of supporting those in need in our Las Vegas community. (Children under 2 & Senior Citizens 65+ are FREE.) The entrance fee can be paid by cash or credit card.
Additional details can be found online at ethelm.com
The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village. Photo by Nikki Emord
The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village
Celebrating 33 Years of Magic
6300 West Oakey Blvd.
A cherished local tradition, The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village celebrates its 33rd year of spreading joy while giving back to the community. Every dollar spent supports Opportunity Village’s mission to empower, employ, and serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Guests can stroll through millions of sparkling lights, ride the Forest Express Passenger Train, or take on the thrilling 50-foot Avalanche Slide. The park also features midway games, Cheyenne’s Enchanted Carousel, Rod’s Mini Golf, and endless opportunities for Instagram-worthy photos.
You’ll also find plenty of food, including specialty eats in Camelot Hall, carnival snacks along the main thoroughfare, and sweet treats from the beloved Cookie Cabin. On select evenings, adults can enjoy a cozy beer garden under the lights.
And don’t forget, Santa visits nightly, ready to hear your holiday wishes and pose for photos. Dress warm, bring your festive spirit, and make a night of it at this Las Vegas favorite.
For tickets, event details, or booking information, visit opportunityvillage.org/ovevents
A Season to Savor and Share
From the shimmering succulents of Henderson to the magical lights of Summerlin and the timeless charm of Opportunity Village, the holidays in Las Vegas offer more than just spectacle; they celebrate community, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re ice skating under the stars, tasting hand-crafted chocolates, or taking a train ride through a forest of lights, these seasonal celebrations are reminders that the spirit of the holidays truly shines brightest when shared.
This article was originally published in the 2025 Holiday Issue of Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine, and can be read in its original format here.
