Artistic rendering โ Event may differ
Gift of Lights
Embark on a magical journey through the Gift of Lights, a cherished New England family tradition at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. This spectacular 2.5-mile drive-thru light show transforms the holiday season into a dazzling spectacle of festive cheer, running for 39 nights from Thanksgiving through early January.
What to Expect
2.5-mile drive-thru light show at a speedway
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ โ Get tickets
- Parking: Free General Parking: On Friday & Saturday of NASCAR weekends, all traffic must use South Entrance to access general parking. On Sunday of NASCAR weekend, traffic arriving from the south can access general parking through the South Entrance & traffic arriving from the north can access general parking through the North Entrance. Stickered parking (VIP, premium or handicapped) may be accessed by proceeding to the Main Entrance all weekend. The gates to the daily parking lots will open by 7 a.m. during NASCAR weekend. On non-NASCAR weekends, please proceed to the Main Entrance unless traffic signs direct you to the South Entrance (such as during Gift of Lights). There is no overnight parking allowed on the premises except in designated areas where parking is purchased in association with camping. If you're attending a NASCAR weekend in an RV & only parking for the day, you must park in a day parking lot, as no overnight parking is allowed. Paid Parking: NHMS offers a variety of paid parking option during NASCAR weekend. When parking in these areas โ Premium Parking, Village Green Tailgate, S1 Lot & Overlook Tailgate Hill โ please enter at the speedway's Main Entrance off Route 106 North, where you will be directed to your lot from there. The N14 Lot is located off Route 106 South across from the TV Entrance & allows vehicles parked in this lot to exit north or south on to Route 106. Motorcycle Parking: Motorcycle parking is located in the S1 Lot during Motorcycle Week at NHMS. Rideshare: Pick up & drop off for Uber or Lyft is located in front of the Main Office, accessed by taking an immediate left when entering the speedway's Main Entrance off Route 106, during NASCAR weekend.
- Accessibility: This website includes an accessibility system. Press Control-F11 to adjust the website to people with visual disabilities who are using a screen reader; Press Control-F10 to open an accessibility menu.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Loudon
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, magical, traditional
Energy Level
Low (drive-thru)
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High (hours are weather dependent)
Special Events & Promotions
- Fundraising for the local community
- Yule Light Up the Night Run/Walk on December 14th
Location
Event Details
Duration
Varies by day (see hours)
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Speedway Motorsports, LLC
Food & Drink
Food trucks and beverage vendors available on-site
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Check the 'Hours of Operation' section for specific times, as they vary significantly between weekdays, weekends, and special event nights like the 'Yule Light Up the Night Run/Walk'.
- Plan your visit during the 4:30 PM - 10 PM window between December 18-28 for the longest operating hours.
- During NASCAR weekends, follow the specific entrance directions for 'South Entrance' or 'North Entrance' as indicated for general parking to avoid confusion.
- Consider attending on a weekday evening outside of peak holiday weeks for potentially lighter traffic and a more relaxed viewing experience.
- While the event is a drive-thru, note the 'Yule Light Up the Night Run/Walk' on December 14th if you prefer to experience the lights on foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours of operation for Gift of Lights?
Hours vary: 4:30-9 p.m. from Nov. 27 โ Dec. 13, Dec. 15-17, and Dec. 29 โ Jan. 4; 6:30-9 p.m. on Dec. 14 (with a special Run/Walk from 4:30-6:30 p.m.); and 4:30-10 p.m. from Dec. 18-28.
Where is the entrance for Gift of Lights?
The event is a drive-thru, and visitors should enter at NHMS's South Entrance.
Is Gift of Lights a weather-dependent event?
Yes, the hours of operation are weather dependent, so it's advisable to check for any updates.
Can I walk through the light display?
Yes, on December 14th, they host the 'Yule Light Up the Night Run/Walk' from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for those who wish to experience the lights on foot.
Is there parking available?
Yes, free general parking is available, with specific entrance instructions for NASCAR weekends. Paid parking options and premium parking are also offered during major events.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.