Nothing says holidays quite like a house all decked out in twinkly lights and decorations. But when you do not live near a Clark Griswold-type from the classic holiday film, “Christmas Vacation”, it can be overwhelming to guess where the best holiday light displays are. Rather than driving aimlessly around town, here is a guide to the best local areas to see holiday light displays and to get in the holiday spirit.

The “Fab 40s” is something one must experience if having ever lived in Sacramento during Christmas time. This is a great place to look at beautiful homes with elaborate Christmas decorations. When driving through, lights are strung across the streets from tree to tree and the streets just light up and you will want Christmas as soon as possible. Drive up and down 40th through 48th streets, between J Street and Folsom Boulevard.

Every year in early December, the California State Capitol is home to a grand holiday tree that is brought in annually and decorated impressively. According to the Sacramento Bee, this year the tree stands at 53 feet tall, has 10,000 LED lights and 900 ornaments created by children and adults with developmental disabilities. Grab a hot chocolate, coffee or tea with loved ones and stroll the streets of downtown to breathe in the holiday cheer.

River Park is the neighborhood located off of H Street near Sac State’s campus. There is only one way in and out of the light tour and the houses on Carlson Drive and Sandburg Drive are decorated with fabulous light displays.

Even though this location is not technically in Sacramento, it is located near Gold River. This is worth the 25 minute drive from Sacramento State. The light show is spectacular and every house that participates sets up Christmas music to have the lights all in sync to the beat of the music. The lights begin twinkling at 5:30 p.m. and go on until 10 p.m.

Old Sacramento is hosting the 6th annual light show. There will be a 20 minute live performance of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” with actors portraying Jack Frost and Santa Claus. The show is kid friendly, free and welcome to the public. There is a tree standing over 50 feet tall and the lighting of the tree is done by Santa Claus. It will be a fun night to cruise the streets of Old Sacramento and check out all of the fun shops with family and friends.