This Underrated Southern City Transforms Into a Christmas Wonderland Every December—With Over 1 Million Lights

"A dazzling, walkable spectacle launched in 2017, this over-one-million-light display stretches across more than six downtown blocks, with LED installations on facades, storefronts, medians, and public spaces choreographed to upbeat Macon Pops tracks. It’s meant to be seen from multiple vantage points rather than a single viewing area, as each surface joins a carefully calibrated dance to the soundtrack. The season kicks off November 28 with the annual Macon Pops Christmas Spectacular, then nightly shows run at 6, 7, 8, and 9 p.m. for 45 minutes on the hour, with the lights staying on from 10 to 11 p.m. for late-evening wandering." - Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman is a New York-based writer and editor who specializes in travel, lifestyle, food, and shopping content. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines