Despite warm temperatures on Christmas Eve, Arlington’s dazzling light displays prove holiday magic doesn’t need a winter chill.
ARLINGTON, Texas — Christmas may feel more like a day at the beach than a day in December this year, but North Texans aren’t letting unseasonably warm weather dampen their holiday cheer.
As residents swap Christmas sweaters for shorts and T-shirts, neighborhoods across the region are proving that the magic of the season shines just as bright.
A 20-year labor of love
In Arlington’s Interlochen neighborhood, the Wiggins family has been creating Christmas magic for two decades. What started as a modest display has grown into something extraordinary.
“Didn’t we already have decorations?” Lori Wiggins recalls asking her father, Kirk, when they first moved to the neighborhood.
“We had some, but each year we kept on adding,” Kirk responded.
Now, after 365 days of anticipation, their elaborate display comes to life each evening. When the sun goes down, the magic of Christmas illuminates the street.
Celebrating tradition in tank tops
For many North Texas families, visiting holiday light displays has been a cherished tradition for generations. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Interlochen Christmas Lights Display celebration, though the weather is making it feel a little different.
“It’s a special Texas something to get to be in a tank top on Christmas Eve,” said Olivia Rodriguez Smith, embracing the unique circumstances.
But not everyone is thrilled about the warm temperatures. Without snow or the need for hot cocoa, some residents admit the unseasonable weather affects the atmosphere.
“It’s not that Christmas feeling,” said Bonnie Shinsky.
The lights still sparkle
Despite the heat, visitors agree that the spectacular light displays still manage to spark plenty of holiday spirit.
“It makes it a lot better, have the window down, enjoy it,” said Alexis Archer, finding a silver lining in the warm weather.
For the Wiggins family, that’s exactly why they spend so much time and effort on their display year after year.
“Everyone’s been through some good times and not so good times, and we’re just trying to bring some positive things in everyone’s life,” they explained.
Neighbor Danielle Shriver, who has watched the tradition grow over the years, summed it up simply: “Just fun to see it every year.”
Plan your visit
For those hoping to experience the holiday magic in Interlochen, be prepared for crowds. The city of Arlington warns that wait times to enter the neighborhood can exceed an hour during peak viewing times — a testament to just how beloved these displays have become.
Whether you’re bundled up or dressed for summer, North Texans are proving that the spirit of Christmas isn’t measured in degrees — it’s measured in the joy we bring to one another.