Georgia's largest residential Christmas light display is spectacular, and it's right behind Kennesaw State University (directions here). This hidden gem has been adding joy to people's lives since 1988, when homeowners Richard and Sherrie Taylor began creating the display. Each year since, Lights of Joy has grown more and more magnificent. Over 1,000,000 lights decorate the residence, illuminating every tree and azalea bush throughout the property.[1] The view is incredible regardless of whether you are driving by or walking through the display, and I recommend doing both. Did I mention that the homeowners were contestants on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” in 2019?
Each year, Lights of Joy opens the weekend after Thanksgiving and runs through the beginning of January. If you are looking for some holiday cheer this weekend, it will be open each night through January 1st, 2023 (6-11 p.m). While it is free to the public, donations are accepted and recommended. When you see this gem in person, you will see why it is more than worthy of a donation. I have been visiting Lights of Joy since 2020, and it has brought me so much happiness. As with every Georgia Gem I feature, this one is too spectacular for words. Last year I visited countless times, and I am still in awe each time that I see it.
I recommend getting there early because the crowds will increase as the night goes on. Since it is a synchronized display, you can tune in to 99.1 FM as you drive by and enjoy the “musical light show.”[2] Driving by is the best way to see everything from a distance. It helps you appreciate the display in its entirety. You can also park at the Influencers Church directly across from the residence and walk around. You will be surrounded by a forest of trees that are all illuminated in lights. My favorite details include the picturesque archway and 90 foot tree covered in white lights and purple lanterns.
I walked around the display a few times this year, and all I can say is “Wow!” The time, effort, and creativity that went into designing Lights of Joy is unbelievable. I am a detail-oriented person, and the little details are what make this display so spectacular. I stood in awe just taking in as many details as I could, like the lanterns that hang from their enormous oak trees. What I love most is the sheer joy on visitors faces, especially the young children. Last night, I saw a family of 20 trying to get a group shot. So I offered to take some pictures for them. Seeing their smiles reminded me of how lucky I am to witness Lights of Joy again this year.
Richard and Sherrie Taylor state that, “Our sole objective and mission is to bring a little JOY to everyone we meet.”[3]You can see that joy on the faces of every visitor who witnesses the display. If you get a chance this weekend, stop by Lights of Joy in Kennesaw, GA. It is easy to access on Ben King Road. When you see it in person, you will once again be reminded of why we are lucky to live in such a beautiful state.
To learn more about Lights of Joy, please check out their website. No one can tell the Taylors' story better than the homeowners themselves. You'll find some great background information, facts, and advice to help you better plan your visit.
Word of Caution: Please be careful as you cross the street, especially if you have small children. I witnessed several cars speeding past the residence last night with no regard for pedestrians or the small children excited to see Christmas lights.
[1] Taylor, Richard, and Sherrie Taylor. “Lights of Joy Specs.” Lights of Joy, Richard and Sherrie Taylor, https://www.lightsofjoy.net/specs.
[2] Taylor, Richard, and Sherrie Taylor. “Lights of Joy: Visit Us.” Lights of Joy, Lights of Joy, https://www.lightsofjoy.net/visit-us.
[3] Taylor, Richard, and Sherrie Taylor. “About Joy.” Lights of Joy, Lights of Joy , https://www.lightsofjoy.net/about-joy.