We're on the hunt for Lakeland communities that go all out with lights + decorations in the winter — and we know you might be, too. Here's where to go this season, whether you're just driving through or hoping to live near others who match your holiday cheer.

Ask the expert

Who knows lights better than the pros putting them up? We reached out to Brian Seeley at Light Up Lakeland to learn which neighborhoods are keeping them busy this season.

Lake Hollingsworth is sure to be fully lit again this year, with the home at the corner of Lake Hollingsworth Drive + Belmar Street sure to be a treat. Seeley also said to head south toward the Delphi neighborhood off of Lakeland Highlands Road (just note that it's gated), or EF Griffin Road in Bartow.

Home for the holidays: 2424 Delphi Cir. | 2,914-sqft, contemporary-style home in the Delphi neighborhood

You could say this house is full of character(s). | Photo by Reader Tim G.

Reader recs

Many Lakelanders have a house they make sure to visit every year (or they live in one). Reader Tim G. sent in a photo of 8009 Ridgeglen Cir. E., near North Socrum Loop Road, which is fully decked out with inflatables.

The Lake Miriam area is also a hotspot — Maja O. recommended Lancelot and Blair A. suggested Lochinvar, which is right down the block.

Home for the holidays: 8012 Glenridge Ln. | 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom right around the corner from Tim G.'s pick

Editors' picks

You'll find City Editor Connor at Ariana Village's Parade of Lights, an annual drive-thru spectacle happening Dec. 15-23 (Lakeland Mom has a great guide). For City Editor Amelia, nothing pairs better with a cup of hot cocoa than the lights around Christina in south Lakeland.

Home for the holidays: 1284 Ariana Village Blvd. | Mobile home in the Ariana Village 55+ community