World of Illumination is back for 2025. How to see the holiday lights in metro Phoenix

Every year, World of Illumination transforms Arizona nights into a glowing wonderland of lights, music and holiday vibes.

This drive-thru animated light show is an annual event that has become a holiday tradition for many. Visitors can expect to roll through over a mile of lights, synchronized LED displays and festive music to get you singing along.

Arizona has two locations — Tempe and Glendale, each with a unique theme. The best part is you can experience it from the warmth of your car, no coats or crowds required.

Here is everything to know about World of Illumination Tempe and Glendale.

World of Illumination Tempe

This year’s theme at World of Illumination Tempe is “Rockin’ Christmas.” With a mile-long symphony of sight and sound hosted by MC Mic, imagine your car gliding under tunnels of light, past massive musical notes that bounce to classic holiday beats and a retro Santa rocking around the Christmas tree.

Details: 6-10 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday. Nov. 14- Jan. 4. Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe.

World of Illumination Glendale

This year, Glendale takes you out of this world with the theme “Cosmic Sleighride.” This mile-long course invites guests to blast off into a space-age holiday adventure. Your host, Shiny the Star, takes you beyond the sun and races you among the stars and passes through Kris Kringle’s celestial portal, where you can expect astro-elves working at Santa City.

Details: 6-10 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday. Nov. 14- Jan. 4. Desert Diamond Casino, 9431 W. Northern Ave., Glendale.

World of Illumination ticket prices

The system for World of Illumination is one admission ticket per carload. To get the best bang for your buck, fill your car with all the family and friends you can safely manage.

World of Illumination tickets cost $39.99-$49.99, depending on the date of your visit. Buy at worldofillumination.com.

How long does it take to drive through World of Illumination?

Driving through the World of Illumination typically takes about 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and how busy it is that night. Pro tip: Go early in the evening or on a weekday to avoid long lines.

Reporting by Tiffany Acosta, Arizona Republic

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