Ethel M’s Annual Holiday Cactus Garden Christmas Lights 2023
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Discover the magic of Ethel M Christmas lights in Las Vegas! This renowned holiday spectacle transforms a 3-acre cactus garden into a dazzling display of over one million lights, all for a good cause. With a minimal $2 entrance fee per person, it’s an unmissable experience.
I’ll guide you through what to expect at the Ethel M Holiday Cactus Garden, offer tips for your visit, and provide a visual photo feast of the festive lights.
Let’s explore this unique holiday attraction, where cacti and Christmas lights create unforgettable memories.
Key Information
- Location: Ethel M Chocolate Factory (2 Cactus Garden Dr, Henderson, NV), just a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip
- Display: Over 1 million lights in a 3-acre cactus garden.
- Schedule: Nightly from 5 PM to 10 PM, November 3rd to December 31st.
- Admission: $2 per person, supporting local charities.
- Attractions: Unique cactus varieties, festive decorations, food trucks, and Santa visits.
- Special Feature: Self-guided tour of the Ethel M Chocolate Factory.
Ethel M Chocolate Factory Christmas Lights 2023
This year (2023) marks the 30th Annual Holiday Cactus Garden at Ethel M in Las Vegas. The three-acre cactus garden lit up with over 1 million lights is a sight you won’t find anywhere else!
Ethel M’s Cactus Garden is the largest cacti garden in all of Nevada and features cactus varieties from around the world. At Christmastime, this cacti garden turns into a magical glittery Christmas wonderland every night from 5 to 10 pm. Aside from viewing a million lights, you’ll also see cute Christmas figures, electronic reindeer, and more!
The cactus garden is home to over 300 varieties of cacti. These Christmas reindeer have certainly made themselves at home next to some bright purple Pancake cactus.
While the Christmas season might be known for its bright, festive colors, nothing can beat this stand of cacti bathed in vivid holiday lighting.
I really enjoyed these barrel cacti draped in the traditional red and green lights of the holidays.
Everywhere you turn, there is another display of lights and colors that will take your breath away!
These Christmas angels are a popular holiday display, and they’re always happy to have their picture taken.
As are these reindeer hiding amongst the cactus. I wonder if they’re looking for Santa?
There’s no shortage of things to enjoy while enjoying a stroll through the garden, including:
- Taking in all the merry and bright Christmas decorations
- Enjoying a cup of tasty hot cocoa
- Stopping by a food truck for a yummy treat
- Visiting Santa
Holiday Cactus Garden Light Schedule
The Christmas cactus garden is lit up and open from November 3rd until December 31st. The hours are 5 – 10 PM nightly, so don’t miss out if you plan to be in the area!
A food truck is available at the holiday cactus garden for cups of hot chocolate, food items, and desserts.
There’s even an area with tables, chairs, and propane heaters so you can eat in comfort or just sit and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.
Cost to Visit Ethel M’s Holiday Lights
Ethel M’s Holiday Cactus Garden has a $2 entrance fee per person. All proceeds will support Help of Southern Nevada and the Three Square food bank.
When approaching the gate, you can pay the entrance fee with either cash or a card.
You’ll also find Santa while exploring the Ethel M Xmas lights. He’s available for pictures with the kids and those young at heart.
Where is Ethel M’s Cactus Garden?
Ethel M’s Cactus Garden is at 2 Cactus Garden Drive, Henderson, Nevada. The garden is to the right of the chocolate factory.
You can access parking along East Sunset Road and Sunset Way. Ethel M has three parking areas for you to use on the left of Cactus Drive. However, do not park on the right side of Cactus Drive around the Green Valley Business Park. If you do, they may tow your car.
If the Ethel M parking lots are full, you can park in the Smith’s (grocery store) parking lot across the street or at the Roseman University Campus.
The Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden are available to visit and tour year-round, but you only see lights like these during the holiday season.
What to Bring to Ethel M’s Annual Holiday Cactus Garden
Here’s what you should bring with you for your visit to Ethel M’s Annual Holiday Cactus Garden lights:
- Warm clothes
- Comfortable shoes
- Camera
You’ll want to bundle up in warm clothes when visiting the garden at night. Wearing comfortable walking shoes is also important if you plan to walk around the full three acres of the park.
Take your wallet with you while visiting the glittering garden lights. Aside from the initial $2 per person entry fee, you’ll have opportunities to try their famous hot cocoa and other fun holiday treats. If you want to indulge yourself and treat your loved ones, you should plan to carry a little extra money with you.
Carrying a camera or a phone that takes great pictures into the garden is important for capturing those unforgettable memories.
Is the Ethel M Christmas Lights event family-friendly?
Yes, the Ethel M Christmas Lights event is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog to the Ethel M cactus garden?
Dogs and other pets are prohibited in the Ethel M Holiday Cactus Garden. This policy is in place for the safety of the animals, as the cacti are exposed and close to the paths, posing a risk of injury if pets stray.
Are the Ethel M Christmas Lights on display even when it’s raining?
Yes, the Ethel M Christmas cactus garden is on display even when it’s raining. The event is an outdoor experience, and the lights are designed to be weather-resistant.
Is the Ethel M Chocolates Factory open during the Ethel M Christmas garden event?
Yes, the Ethel M Chocolates Factory is open during the Christmas lights display times. Visitors can take a self-guided factory tour and learn about the chocolate-making process.
Are there any other activities or attractions at the Ethel M Holiday Lights event?
In addition to the Christmas lights and chocolate factory tour, the Ethel M Christmas Lights event also features live entertainment, visits with Santa Claus, and holiday shopping at the Ethel M Chocolates store.
Final Thoughts
The Ethel M Christmas event is a must-see holiday attraction for anyone visiting the Las Vegas area. With over a million Christmas lights and holiday decorations spread across Nevada’s largest botanical cactus garden, visitors are sure to be dazzled by the festive display.
And with the inexpensive $2 admission, live entertainment, and a self-guided tour of the chocolate factory, the Cactus Holiday Lights event offers something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this magical holiday experience!
Have you been to the Ethel M Cactus Garden during the holidays? What did you think? Tell us in the comment section below.
