Now that winter is settling in and Halloween has passed, Christmas displays are starting to pop up along the roads and in stores throughout Wyoming. One display in Cheyenne won't be ready for a few more weeks, but when it opens, it's the most breathtaking sight in the state.
The Hemi Lighted Forest of Hope began in the fall of 2010, when Nancy and Gary Kelley decided to do something special for their granddaughter's Christmas Visit.
Jessie Hall, the Kelley's granddaughter, had previously undergone a brain surgery called "hemispherectomy". Jessie had been experiencing seizures so disruptive and dangerous that she had to have a hemisphere of her brain removed. The Halls had established the Hemi Foundation to provide support and community towards other families going through the same difficult experience.
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When word came that Jessie and family were visiting for Christmas, Nancy and Gary decided to light up a handful of trees in their yard.
They thought it would only be right to light a tree for each of the children in the Hemi Foundation directory - and in 2010, there were over 400 children registered.This was going to be a bigger project than they had intended!
Gary and Nancy spent that first fall decorating as many trees as they could to be sure each child had their own tree.
Neighbors, friends, and local businesses chipped in time, labor, and supplies to help make this dream come true. That first year started with 450 trees and 65,000 lights. Jessie did not get to see the display in 2010, as she had to have another emergency surgery. The Kelleys were determined to create a winter wonderland for the following year, and spent all of 2011 preparing.
Last year, the display topped well over 600 trees and 200,000 lights.
Each tree is dedicated to a special child, and families travel from all over to see the tree the Kelleys decorated for them. Every year, the display has gotten bigger and better. When you visit in 2018, you'll find a train, hayride, waterfall feature, and of course plenty of hot chocolate to go around.
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There's no better way to spread some Christmas Cheer than to come visit this incredible, inspiring Hemi Lighted Forest of Hope in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Take a closer look at some of these incredibly special Christmas Trees below:
The Hemi Lighted Forest of Hope is located at 6565 Ashley Dr., Cheyenne, WY. The display is recurring nightly from November 24th through New Years' Eve, from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., with admission by donation. Hay rides are free, and train rides cost just $1.
The Fourth of July in the United States isn’t just about burgers and sunscreen - it’s about fireworks that go boom, pop, and wow! Picture this: a warm summer night, family and friends sprawled out on picnic blankets, and anticipation building as the sun dips below the horizon. Suddenly, the darkness is shattered by deafening bursts of color - crimson, sapphire, and gold - painting the canvas of the night sky. It’s like Mother Nature handed a box of crayons to a mischievous artist and said, “Go wild!” So grab your sparklers, channel your inner pyromaniac (safely, of course), and let’s celebrate America's birthday with a symphony of dazzling lights! Here are just a few of the best places to watch Fourth of July fireworks in Wyoming this year:
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Note that these celebrations are subject to change last minute due to weather, fire risks, and other external factors. Always double-check before heading out.
1. Fireworks Festival, Casper
The Fireworks Festival at the Ford Wyoming Center in Casper is a cherished annual community event that brings together families, friends, and neighbors to celebrate our nation’s independence in a fun and festive atmosphere. Cornhole tournaments, chalk art contests, dunk tanks, parades, inflatables, vendors ... the all-ages fun kicks off at 4 p.m. on July 4!
If your town's Independence Day festivities don't include a pie-eating contest and a classic car show, you're missing out! Wyoming's capital city goes all out for its annual Fourth of July Celebration, which kicks off June 29 and is slated to include food trucks, a pie-eating contest, vendors, a car and motorcycle show, and so much more. The pre-fireworks happenings will take place at Frontier Mall, but the 4th of July fireworks will no doubt be the showstopper. This carefully-planned display is designed for maximum visibility all across Cheyenne, so pull up a lawn chair wherever you happen to be grilling hot dogs and enjoy!
Independence Day in Cody may start with the town's iconic summer rodeo, but it ends with a bang! (Actually, make that a few hundred of them!) The Cody Stampede Rodeo kicks off Cody's annual 4th of July celebrations, but explore beyond the arena to get a full taste of the holiday. The Cody Stampede Parade, Wild West Arts Fest, and Runner's Stampede Marathon are just the start of everything you'll uncover over the course of the festival. On July 4, fireworks will be launched north of the rodeo grounds after dusk, so find a spot downtown and enjoy the show!
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4. Independence Day Fresh Air, Freedom & Fun Festival, Evanston
"Seeds of Change" is the theme of Evanston's 2024 Independence Day celebration. It all kicks off with a fun run and themed parade, free games and contests located all throughout the city (frisbee-throwing, watermelon-eating, and egg-tossing, and more), and ends with a wow-worthy fireworks display over the lake at around 9:30 p.m. Sign up for the parade and contests ASAP!
Is there any better place to celebrate America than in the heart of the country's most breathtaking mountain range? Head on over to Jackson for a full lineup of Independence Day festivities: breakfast on the Square, an epic parade full of surprises, block parties, a live shootout reenactment, and then not one, but THREE fireworks shows - one at Snow King and two in Teton Village - one on the 3rd and one on the 4th. And don't forget the rodeo! Pro Tip: if you happen to be in Jackson early, the Grand Teton Music Festival is held at the Center for the Arts' park on July 3, and a pops concert is held on the 4th.
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6. Fourth of July Celebration, Lander
Locals already know to head to the rodeo grounds in Lander every July to cheer on skilled bronc-riders and ropers, but this spot also launches epic Independence Day fireworks. After a brief hiatus, they're back with a brand new location! This new, non-profit-run Fourth of July event will be held at the Wyoming Life Resource Center campus. Attendees will also have opportunities to enjoy fun runs, a pancake breakfast, parade, BBQ lunch, and, of course, Lander's highly-anticipated rodeo before the fireworks finally kick off at the WLRC campus after dark.
If you’re in Laramie, Washington Park is the place to be! The Freedom Has a Birthday event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and promises FREE family-friendly fun - inflatables and live music included - culminating in the annual Fire in the Sky fireworks display. Throughout the day, multiple entertainment stages will be dishing out tunes and performances, plenty of food vendors, and classic carnival-style festivities.
What are you waiting for? Grab your sparklers, find a cozy spot, and let the symphony of dazzling lights begin! Of course, these are just a few of Wyoming's most impressive displays, but there are plenty more to see. Feel free to drop the details for your town's 4th of July happenings in the comments below or nominate another local celebration.
What's your favorite way to watch fireworks every year? At home with family, from a distance, or in the thick of it?
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We're all in favor of ooh-ing and ahh-ing over epic explosives on America's birthday, but please keep those limbs in check as you do so! That means: maintain your distance, ensure all pets are safely indoors, and follow all local restrictions regarding residential fireworks. This year, stay safe out there and consider attending one of these shows instead of lighting your own fireworks.
We all know that Wyoming and winter are practically synonymous. But it's not all sub-zero wind chill and 8-foot snow piles when the seasons change! Wyoming, known for its rugged landscapes and frontier spirit, transforms into a magnificent winter wonderland during the holiday season. From charming downtowns adorned with twinkling lights to lively festivals that capture the magic of Christmas, many of the state's most beloved towns offer unique and heartwarming holiday experiences that range from traditional community events to dazzling holiday displays and beyond. Join us on a journey through some of the most festive Christmas towns in Wyoming, each with its own special events and Christmas traditions.
Casper, Wyoming is a magical place to be during the Christmas season. The city is known for its vibrant and exciting holiday celebrations, starting with Lights in the Park at Healing Park on Conwell, which dazzle all winter long and are set to music. Another one of the most popular Christmas events in Casper is the Downtown Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting, which typically takes place the day after Thanksgiving and is the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season. The parade features floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself. The tree lighting ceremony at David Street Station takes place immediately after the parade.
If you’re looking for even more cheerful events, you can check out the Casper Christmas Village, which is a free event that runs for the entire Christmas season and features a variety of holiday-themed activities, including ice skating, a Christmas market, and visits with Santa Claus. You can also enjoy live music, food vendors, and a variety of other Christmas-themed attractions.
Saddle up, folks, because Christmas in Cheyenne isn't your run-of-the-mill holiday affair! Every year, Wyoming's capital is aglow with holiday spirit during the Christmas season. The annual Cheyenne Christmas Parade is a major event, featuring beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus himself. But that's just the start! The city's historic downtown district twinkles with holiday lights and decorations for Cheyenne's Old West Holiday, creating a festive atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. Visit Kringle's Ranch, Mrs. Claus' Bake Shop, the Pony Express, and much more to get the full experience of this cheerful Wyoming Christmas town.
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The towering State Capitol building and Cheyenne Depot are both beautifully illuminated as well, adding to the Christmas ambiance. But for a unique holiday experience, don't miss the Cheyenne Trolley Tours, where visitors can ogle some of the city's most beautifully decorated homes.
Nestled at the eastern edge of Yellowstone National Park, Cody welcomes visitors with open arms and a hearty dose of holiday spirit come Christmastime in true Western style! A true frontier Christmas wonderland, downtown Cody bursts into glorious color with festive decorations, creating a postcard-perfect scene that is often beautifully blanketed with snow. The annual Cody Cowboy Christmas Stroll and Lighted Parade is another highlight that shows off this fantastic Christmas town to a "T," featuring elaborately decorated floats, firepit s'more stations, Santa sightings, and spirited participants.
Visitors can also keep it simple by taking a trip into Shoshone National Forest to cut their very own Christmas tree, or perhaps take a world-famous trolley tour around the city. Or, for an even warmer hello to the holiday season, attend the Christmas open house at the Buffalo Bill Center to check out some pretty lights, sip hot cocoa, and learn about the wild west! The options are endless.
Dubois is a sleepy Christmas town in western Wyoming that celebrates the season right. There’s live music, the Dubois DeLights festivities, a Christmas lights competition, and a community tree-lighting ceremony, just to start! Join the Dubois community at dusk for a special lighting ceremony at the corner of downtown before heading to the beloved Dubois DeLights to fully immerse in colorful, twinkly Christmas cheer. Then, head to the National Museum of Military Vehicles for even more holiday festivities, photos with Santa, story time, and festive Christmas displays around every corner.
From the town that puts on Wyoming's largest Christmas light display (and light tunnel!) every year comes a whole bevy of holiday festivities for families to choose from as well. After you're done strolling or driving through the family-friendly Campbell County Festival of Lights, where over a MILLION lights dazzle in colorful, festive cheer, check out Gillette's Festival of Trees, enjoy a Mannheim Steamroller Christmas at Cam-Plex Park, peep the holiday window displays around downtown, and spend a day perusing the Farmer’s Market Christmas Show where Santa (and his elves) will be spending the day taking photos, and where dozens of vendors will be showing off their wares as live Christmas music delights in the background. Or, take a few spins around the rink at Skate around the Tree! Whatever you choose, this festive Christmas town in Northeast Wyoming is packed with winter charm.
Nestled in the shadow of the majestic Grand Teton Mountains, Jackson is perhaps one of the most iconic Christmas towns in Wyoming. Jackson's Town Square transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the square, casting a dazzling glow on the charming storefronts. The iconic Antler Arches take on a magical quality under this festive display as well. But in addition to these glowing sights, Jackson also boasts a full lineup of holiday events, including the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Town Square. You'll also want to head to the Wort Hotel to check out their 12 Days of Christmas display - a gorgeous, month-long series of festivities that includes a Holiday Street Lighting Party, a Christmas Day buffet, Holiday Hootenannies around town, and plenty of dazzling decorations.
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For a truly enchanting experience, embark on a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy landscape at the National Elk Refuge. Snuggle up with loved ones under a warm blanket and enjoy the crisp winter air with the snow-capped peaks as a backdrop. Or for a only-in-Wyoming adventure, head to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort to ski with Santa, decorate Christmas cookies, go ice skating, and more.
Christmas in Lander isn't merely about decorations; it's a celebration that brings people together. The town hosts lively Christmas festivals, like the much-loved Light Up Lander parade downtown, which kicks off the holiday season. These parade entries are DECKED. OUT. And the festivities are kicked up a few notches by the addition of fireworks, Santa sightings, and oodles of twinkle lights adorning every corner of downtown. Catch live music, take a hayride, and bring your camera! Visitors will also want to check out the Old-Time Christmas at the Pioneer Museum.
One of Wyoming's most unique Christmas towns, Laramie's incredible seasonal displays are a must-see for anyone craving some Christmas cheer, starting with the Wyoming Territorial Prison. Every winter, Wyoming's oldest prison gets a festive, multi-colored makeover, courtesy of vibrant LED lights! Grab some hot chocolate and stroll through Laramie's charming downtown to the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site to enjoy the site decked out for the holidays, complete with a dazzling walk-thru show of over 10,000 lights synchronized to Christmas classics.
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After experiencing this nostalgic Holiday Light Trail, you'll also get to enjoy the town's colorful holiday parade and unique train lighting. Plus, be sure to check out the Holiday Expo at the Depot and the captivating, and walk-through Winter Lights Festival at Washington Park! In addition to the Parade & Train Lighting, fun community events such as Plaid Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Artist Sunday that take place during the holiday season…meaning no matter where you turn, you're sure to encounter plenty of Christmas activities!
The tiny community of Riverton is definitely a Christmas town in Wyoming that embraces the heart of the season, starting with the community tree lighting! The holidays officially kick off with this special event, as Santa makes a stop at the historic Depot Restaurant to light the town Christmas tree as hot chocolate is served to warm up chilled fingers. December is also when sky lanterns and hot air balloons are released for the Riverton, Wyoming Rendezvous! Then, visitors and residents alike can enjoy the rest of the Riverton Holiday Festival, peruse the decorated business windows around town (it's a competition, so they're fantastic!), ogle the incredible neighborhood light displays (yes, this is a competition too!), check out the Winter Arts Fair, fireworks, the Light-Up Parade, and so much more. One local stop in particular has been gaining some much-deserved attention, going all-out with their "Hidden Christmas Village," which boasts dozens of handmade displays and is free to enjoy.
Nestled in the rugged embrace of Wyoming's high desert, Rock Springs, the "Christmas Capital of Wyoming," transforms into a winter wonderland come the holiday season. This charming city, with its snowy landscapes and warm community spirit, invites you to experience the holiday season with a hearty dose of small-town Wyoming charm. Rock Springs' downtown streets come alive with a vibrantly-hued glow during the Christmas season. Twinkling lights adorn historic buildings, and the air is filled with the sounds of cheerful carolers. Stroll along the beautifully decorated streets, where local shops showcase unique gifts and seasonal delights.
But the highlight of Rock Springs' Christmas festivities is undoubtedly the Parade of Lights. Picture this: a procession of brightly lit floats, each one a spectacle of creativity and holiday spirit. Local businesses, community groups, and even Santa himself make their way through the heart of the city, delighting spectators of all ages. But it doesn't stop there! New as of 2023, Rock Springs is also hosting its very first Magical Light Show - a dazzling display, synced to music, that will be held along Elk Street. It's so new we haven't even added it to our Best Christmas Lights in Wyoming list yet! Tucked away in Southwest WY, Rock Springs is undeniably one of the most unexpected Christmas towns in Wyoming, but it definitely celebrates the season right.
Sheridan's Main Street is a festive delight, with historic storefronts adorned in holiday splendor that looks straight out of a Hallmark movie. Twinkling lights create a warm ambiance, inviting visitors to stroll through this charming downtown. Sheridan's annual Christmas Stroll is a beloved tradition in town where families gather for caroling, scavenger hunts, and visits with Santa Claus. The stores stay open late, offering unique gifts and holiday treats. Visitors can also enjoy Christmas at the Carriage House, a cozy and festive show that features storytelling, musical guests, theatre performances, and other holiday favorites.
Another highlight is this Christmas town's Festival of Trees. The dazzling display features elaborately decorated trees, each with its own theme and creative flair. It's a visual feast that captures the magic of the season. In Sheridan, the warmth of the community blends seamlessly with the festive holiday spirit, creating a truly special Christmas experience. The Old Fashion Christmas hosted by the Sheridan County Museum is a fantastic Christmas tradition as well!
These charming Christmas towns in Wyoming present just a snapshot of the festivities to be found around the Cowboy State, but each offer a delightful blend of holiday traditions, festive displays, and warm community spirit. From the rugged charm of Cody to the snow-covered fairytale of Jackson, each of these Wyoming Christmas towns has its own unique way of welcoming the holiday season.
What are some of your favorite things to do for Christmas in Wyoming? Let us know!
It's impossible to experience every holiday activity that Wyoming has to offer, let alone highlight all of the best places to go for Christmas in Wyoming. But if you find yourself ready to dive into one of our state's "warmer" winter activities instead, be sure to check these swoon-worthy hot springs off your list. And speaking of lists...have you checked yours twice?
