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Christmas Lights in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
The top places to see Christmas lights in Carmel-by-the-Sea this season are Christmas in the Adobes (Dec 11 – Dec 12), Christmas on the Wharf (Dec 4 – Dec 20) and Tree Lighting at Del Monte Center (Nov 21 – Nov 21). We've mapped 1 display in Carmel-by-the-Sea and 15 more nearby (6 tree lightings, 6 events, 3 parades). 8 are free. Tap any display for dates, hours and directions.
Updated Nov 12, 2026
Near Carmel-by-the-Sea (within 25 miles)
Tap + Tour on a few displays to get one driving route you can send to your phone (how it works). Missing a house or show in Carmel-by-the-Sea? Add it free.
Christmas lights in Carmel-by-the-Sea: common questions
What are the best Christmas lights in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Popular picks this season include Christmas in the Adobes (Dec 11 – Dec 12), Christmas on the Wharf (Dec 4 – Dec 20), Tree Lighting at Del Monte Center (Nov 21 – Nov 21) and Tree Lighting at Colton Hall (Dec 4 – Dec 4). In all, 16 displays are mapped in and around Carmel-by-the-Sea, from decorated houses and neighborhoods to ticketed light shows.
Where can I see free Christmas lights in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Free options include Christmas on the Wharf, Tree Lighting at Del Monte Center, Tree Lighting at Colton Hall and Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade. 8 of the 16 displays near Carmel-by-the-Sea are free to visit; most home and neighborhood displays cost nothing to drive by.
When do Christmas lights start in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
The earliest Carmel-by-the-Sea-area displays turn on Nov 21, and most are running by the weekend after Thanksgiving. Many stay lit through New Year's; check each display's page for its exact dates and nightly hours.
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Professional Christmas light installers in Carmel-by-the-Sea hang, maintain and take down your lights, or install permanent lights you control from your phone. Tell us about your house and get free quotes.
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