The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by checking out the amazing Christmas lights displays in Brea, California? For years, Brea has been a top destination for holiday light enthusiasts, with its charming neighborhoods and streets transformed into winter wonderlands. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the best neighborhoods to visit, provide tips on how to make the most of your experience, and share some fun facts about the history of holiday lights in Brea.
Best Neighborhoods to Visit
Brea is home to several neighborhoods that go all out with their holiday decorations. Here are some of the top areas to visit:
- Country Hills: This neighborhood is known for its extravagant displays, with many homes featuring elaborate light shows, animatronic characters, and festive lawn decorations.
- North Hills: This area is famous for its synchronized light displays, with entire streets coordinating their lights to music.
- Brea Downtown: The downtown area is transformed into a winter wonderland, with lights, decorations, and festive events throughout the holiday season.
Tips for Visiting the Displays
- Plan ahead: Check the dates and times for each neighborhood's display, as they may vary.
- Arrive early: Popular neighborhoods can get crowded, so arrive early to avoid the rush.
- Be respectful: Remember to respect the homeowners and their properties. Keep noise levels down, and don't litter or trespass.
- Bring snacks and drinks: Make a night of it by bringing some hot cocoa and snacks to enjoy while you take in the sights.
A Brief History of Holiday Lights in Brea
The tradition of holiday lights in Brea dates back to the 1950s, when a few pioneering homeowners began decorating their homes with lights and decorations. Over the years, the displays have become more elaborate, with the introduction of new technologies and creative ideas. Today, Brea is renowned for its holiday lights displays, attracting visitors from all over Southern California.
How to Make Your Own Holiday Lights Display
If you're inspired by the amazing displays in Brea, why not try creating your own? Here are some tips to get you started:
- Plan your design: Sketch out your idea, taking into account the size and shape of your yard.
- Choose your lights: Select a variety of lights, including incandescent, LED, and net lights.
- Use a timer: Set a timer to turn your lights on and off, so you don't have to worry about them.
- Add decorations: Incorporate festive decorations, such as wreaths, garlands, and inflatables.
Fun Facts About Holiday Lights
- The first electric lights: The first electric lights were used in 1882 by Thomas Edison, who strung lights around his laboratory.
- The most lights: The Guinness World Record for the most lights on a residential property is held by a home in LaGrangeville, New York, which features over 500,000 lights.
- Energy efficiency: LED lights use up to 90% less energy than incandescent lights, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Environmental Impact of Holiday Lights
While holiday lights can be a wonderful way to get into the festive spirit, they do have an environmental impact. Here are some tips to reduce your carbon footprint:
- Use LED lights: LED lights are more energy-efficient than incandescent lights.
- Turn off your lights: Turn off your lights during the day, and use a timer to turn them off at night.
- Recycle your lights: Many hardware stores and municipalities offer light recycling programs.
When do the holiday lights displays in Brea start?
+The holiday lights displays in Brea typically start in late November and run through December.
Can I drive through the neighborhoods to see the lights?
+Yes, you can drive through the neighborhoods to see the lights. However, be respectful of the homeowners and keep noise levels down.
Can I take photos of the holiday lights displays?
+Yes, you can take photos of the holiday lights displays. However, be respectful of the homeowners and their properties.
We hope you've enjoyed this guide to the Brea neighborhood Christmas lights displays. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these displays are sure to get you into the holiday spirit. So grab some hot cocoa, bundle up, and get ready to enjoy the magic of the season!