For 25 years, Glittering Lights has been lighting up the holiday season in Las Vegas, becoming a cherished family tradition for generations. What started as a small holiday attraction in 2000 has grown into Nevada’s largest drive-through light show, bringing festive joy to millions.
As we celebrate this milestone, let’s take a look at how Glittering Lights became the must-visit holiday event it is today!
2000: A Holiday Tradition is Born
Glittering Lights first opened in 2000 as “Gift of Lights” at Sunset Park, created by the Meehan family. The goal? To bring a spectacular holiday experience to the Las Vegas Valley. Families bundled up in their cars to drive through a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, then stepped out to explore a charming holiday village, where they could walk among festive displays, sip hot cocoa, and soak in the holiday magic—all while seasonal music filled the air. Little did anyone know, this would become a beloved tradition that would last for decades!
2010: A Big Move to the Speedway & A Brighter Future
In 2010, Glittering Lights found a new home at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway—a move that allowed for bigger, brighter, and more breathtaking displays. This transition also marked a new era as John and Shannon Bentham of Ivory Star Productions took the reins.
- Going Green! Under their leadership, Glittering Lights became 100% LED-powered, making it not only brighter than ever but also more energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
- More Space, More Magic! The Speedway offered more room for expanded displays, bigger themes, and even more twinkling lights to create an unforgettable experience.
🎶 Ho Ho Radio: The Soundtrack of the Season
From the very beginning, Ho Ho Radio has been an essential part of the Glittering Lights experience. Tune in from your car, roll down the windows, and let the holiday music bring the light displays to life! This unique touch has been delighting visitors since day one, making the drive feel like a magical holiday road trip.
25 Years of Amazing Community Partners
A milestone like this wouldn’t be possible without the support of loyal partners who have been with us since day one!
- Goodwill of Southern Nevada – Helping us spread holiday cheer while supporting local job training and career services.
- Sunny 106.5 – Las Vegas’ favorite holiday music station, setting the perfect soundtrack for a festive drive-through.
- Las Vegas Review-Journal – Keeping the community informed and shining a light on our holiday tradition.
- Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay – Bringing underwater holiday magic to Las Vegas while supporting Glittering Lights!
Their continued support has helped Glittering Lights grow, evolve, and continue to spread joy to families year after year.
More Than Just Lights: A Las Vegas Family Tradition
Over the past 25 years, Glittering Lights has become more than just a drive-through holiday display—it’s a cherished family tradition that brings generations together.
- First dates that turn into family traditions
- Parents who now bring their own kids after visiting as children
- Holiday proposals under the glow of twinkling lights
- Friends making it an annual must-do event
Whether it’s your first visit or your 25th, Glittering Lights continues to be a place where memories are made and the holiday spirit shines bright.
Here’s to 25 Years—and Many More to Come!
As Glittering Lights celebrates 25 magical seasons, we’re incredibly grateful to our visitors, partners, and the Las Vegas community for making this event a holiday tradition like no other.
So grab some hot cocoa, tune into Ho Ho Radio, and come celebrate 25 years of magic at Glittering Lights! Glittering Lights opens in November for the 2025 season—come be part of the magic!
Do you have a favorite Glittering Lights memory? Share it with us us on social media! #GlitteringLights25 See you at the lights!
