The Best Drive-Through Light Show in Tempe

Tempe's Best Drive-Through Light Show: A Must-See Holiday Tradition

Looking for the best drive-through light show in Tempe? You’re in for a treat! World of Illumination’s Enchanted Safari is not only the top pick in town—it’s one of the most dazzling light shows in the country. From jaw-dropping light tunnels to whimsical animated animals, this magical holiday experience is perfect for families, date nights, or anyone who wants to enjoy festive cheer without leaving the car.

What Is the Enchanted Safari?

The Enchanted Safari is World of Illumination’s Tempe-based theme and it lives up to its name. Imagine a glowing, animated safari filled with everything from majestic lions to dancing flamingos, all synchronized to upbeat holiday music. This isn’t your average string-of-lights display. It’s a mile-long, fully immersive experience packed with over a million animated lights and larger-than-life scenes. You drive through the show at your own pace, with your radio tuned in to a custom soundtrack that brings the whole adventure to life.

Expect to encounter elephant stampedes, tropical bird flocks, and even a few holiday surprises hidden among the jungle-themed scenes. Each moment is designed to delight, especially as the colors change and pulse along with the music. It’s especially fun for kids who love animals—or anyone who enjoys a unique twist on the season’s classics.

Don’t be surprised if your favorite moment is when you drive through the giant light tunnel near the finale. It’s like being inside a kaleidoscope of color, with the music swelling to a cinematic climax. That scene alone is worth the visit.

Why It’s the Best Drive-Through Light Show in Tempe

Tempe has a few light displays, but World of Illumination’s Enchanted Safari stands out for several reasons:

One-of-a-Kind Theme: The safari concept adds a wild twist to the traditional holiday aesthetic.
High-Tech Animations: Lights move, pulse, and dance in sync with the music—some scenes feel like you're driving through a cartoon!
Car-Friendly Convenience: You never leave your vehicle, which means it’s pet-friendly, toddler-proof, and weather-safe.
Locally Loved: It’s a staple in the Tempe holiday season and gets rave reviews year after year.
Eco-Conscious Setup: The LED lighting setup is energy-efficient, making it both impressive and environmentally responsible.

If you're searching for the best drive-through light show in Tempe, this one checks all the boxes.

What to Expect

Here’s a breakdown of how to make the most of your visit:

Book in Advance: Tickets are sold online at worldofillumination.com. Choose a time slot and date that works best for your group.
Arrive Early: Lines can build up during peak nights. Arriving 15–20 minutes early helps you beat the crowd.
Tune In: Once you’re parked in line, tune your radio to the listed frequency. That’s how the light show syncs with the soundtrack.
Drive Slowly and Soak It In: The show is about a mile long and takes 20–30 minutes to complete. Drive slowly to enjoy every moment.
Take Photos: You’ll want to capture a few highlights—but remember, flash photos may disrupt your view. Snap responsibly.

Many families turn it into a full evening outing—pajamas for the kids, holiday cookies in the backseat, and matching Santa hats for fun. If you have younger children, pointing out the animals and letting them guess what’s next keeps them engaged the whole way through.

Insider Tips

Best Nights to Visit: Weekdays are quieter and perfect for a more relaxed experience.
Bring Snacks and Hot Cocoa: Turn your car into a cozy winter nook.
Decorate Your Ride: Some guests go all-out with battery-powered lights inside their car—join in the fun!
Restrooms: Hit the bathroom before you go. Once you’re in the line, there’s no turning back!
Make a Playlist for After: Keep the holiday magic going by playing your favorite seasonal tunes once the safari ends.
Bundle Up in Layers: Even if you’re inside the car, the winter air can be chilly if the windows are down.

Also, consider carpooling with friends or family—bigger cars make it easier for everyone to have a good view and enjoy the show together. If you're looking to reduce screen time for kids, this experience offers live, in-the-moment joy that’s both exciting and wholesome.

Who Will Love It?

This drive-through light show is ideal for:

Families with kids who want to stay warm, safe, and entertained
Couples looking for a cute and cozy holiday date night
Pet Parents who want to include furry friends in the festivities
Holiday Enthusiasts who want something visually stunning and unique
Visitors from out of town looking for a special way to enjoy Arizona’s mild winter nights

In fact, this was the highlight of our family’s holiday trip. As an out-of-towner, I didn’t expect Tempe to offer such a vibrant, imaginative experience—but we were blown away. Even after the show ended, we found ourselves talking about our favorite animal displays and how cool the synchronized lights were.

And for those who might not love crowded mall parking or outdoor walking events, the drive-through format is a game-changer. It's inclusive, relaxing, and fits perfectly into a busy holiday schedule.

Final Thoughts

As someone who visits light shows every year, I can confidently say that Enchanted Safari is not just the best drive-through light show in Tempe—it’s one of the best holiday events in Arizona. It combines technology, creativity, and seasonal joy into a magical experience that sticks with you long after the music fades.

Whether you’re a Tempe local or just in town for the holidays, don’t miss this unforgettable adventure. Grab your ticket, fill your thermos with something warm, and make it a night to remember. You won’t regret it.

For more info and to book your visit, check out worldofillumination.com.

Happy Holidays!