As the holiday season approaches, Gulfport, Mississippi transforms into a festive winter wonderland. With glittering lights, holiday music, and family‑friendly events, 2025 promises to be one of the brightest yet. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are several must-see displays and experiences. Here’s your guide to the best Christmas light events in Gulfport this year — perfect for a holiday outing with friends or family.
Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival
The marquee holiday event in Gulfport is the Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival. Held at Jones Park, this event spans 40 acres and features more than 1.5 million lights.
Visitors can stroll or ride through glowing tunnels and light‑sculpture displays, enjoy the “Dancing Trees” choreographed light show, hop on the free trolley, or take a train ride at the on‑site Train Station.
Kids and adults alike will love the holiday touches: from Santa’s Village — complete with elves, Santa’s headquarters, and a chance to meet Santa — to carnival rides and warming stations ideal for sipping hot cocoa.
The 2025 festival runs from November 28 through December 23. Tickets go on sale November 1. General admission is $15–$20, children 4–12 years are $5, and kids under 4 are free.
Holiday Lights at TrainTastic
A newer but growing tradition, TrainTastic Holiday Lights at Mississippi Gulf Coast Model Railroad Museum has become a festive favorite. The museum’s grounds transform into a luminous winter scene, with over a million lights, outdoor train rides, and illuminated displays.
The experience features outdoor train rides through tunnels of lights, seasonal music, indoor exhibits, arts and crafts for kids, and even s’mores and hot chocolate by fire pits.
Santa visits and holiday‑themed activities add to the charm — making it a cozy, fun option for families seeking indoor‑outdoor festive fun.
This 2025 holiday event typically runs from early December through Christmas. Check their site for exact dates and hours.
Combined Holiday Fun with Aquarium Lights
For a different kind of evening, you can also pair lights with marine life by visiting Mississippi Aquarium during its holiday offering A Magical Mississippi Christmas. The aquarium, located on the coast, hosts a festive evening event featuring holiday lights, projection shows, themed exhibits, and even diving elves.
From November 28 through December 23, starting around 4:30 PM, guests can enjoy the aquatic exhibits under holiday lights and festive ambiance, with discounted admission for children and families.
This can be a nice complement to a visit to Harbor Lights, especially since some combo tickets are available that allow access to both attractions — letting you enjoy lights on land and sea in one holiday outing.
Planning Tips for a Merry Visit
- Buy tickets early for the Harbor Lights Winter Festival once they go on sale (November 1) — it’s a popular attraction and can sell out on peak nights.
- For a relaxed evening, consider visiting TrainTastic, especially if you prefer something more low-key but still festive.
- Combine a light show with a visit to Mississippi Aquarium for a unique coastal holiday experience.
- Dress in comfortable layers — even Gulfport coastal nights can get breezy in December — and bring a camera for plenty of photo‑worthy moments.
- Check event websites or social media for updates or schedule changes before heading out.
Conclusion
Gulfport is truly glowing this holiday season. From the grand spectacle of the Harbor Lights Winter Festival to the cozy charm of TrainTastic and the aquatic holiday magic at the Mississippi Aquarium, there are holiday light displays and festive events to delight every kind of visitor in 2025.
If you’re planning a trip or holiday outing, consider stopping by Turan-Foley Cadillac — we’d love to help make your journey as bright as the lights. Visit us for your next vehicle, winter‑ready maintenance, or just to say hello as you make your seasonal plans. We’re here to make your Gulfport holiday a little brighter.
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