Illustration of a light display scene (Ethel M Chocolates Annual Holiday Cactus Garden Lights)
Christmas Lights

Ethel M Chocolates Annual Holiday Cactus Garden Lights

Experience the magic of the holidays at Ethel M Chocolates' Annual Holiday Cactus Garden Lights in Henderson, Nevada. This beloved Las Vegas tradition transforms their botanical garden into a dazzling wonderland with over a million lights. Stroll through the illuminated desert landscape, enjoy festive hot chocolate, and meet Santa Claus for memorable photos. It's a perfect, family-friendly outing to celebrate the season.

What to Expect

Million lights in a desert cactus garden

Event Details

Duration

Nightly from 5 PM to 10 PM (with exceptions)

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Henderson

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Ethel M Chocolates

Food & Drink

Hot chocolate, signature cocktails, wine, and beer available. Gourmet chocolates and gifts for purchase.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, magical, family-friendly, dazzling

Energy Level

Low to medium (walking involved)

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low (mostly outdoors, but can be enjoyed in various weather)

Location

Ethel M Chocolate Factory
2 Cactus Garden Drive
Henderson, NV
89014

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$
  • Accessibility: Service animals are permitted and must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless the individual’s disability prevents using these devices or these devices interfere with the service animal’s safe, effective performance of tasks. In that case, the individual must maintain control of the animal through voice, signal, or other effective controls.
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive earlier in the evening, especially on weekends, to avoid the longest lines for Santa photos and to fully enjoy the light displays before peak crowds.
  • Consider visiting on a weeknight for a more relaxed experience, as weekends can become quite busy with families.
  • Check the specific holiday hours for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day, as they differ from the regular nightly hours.
  • While the garden is free to enter, budget for delicious hot chocolate, festive cocktails, and the opportunity to purchase Ethel M's renowned chocolates as gifts.
  • Dress in layers, as desert evenings can be cool, even during the holiday season.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Santa photography available for purchase
  • Holiday Chocolate Tasting Experience offered
  • Signature holiday cocktails and beverages available

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the exact dates and hours for the Holiday Cactus Garden Lights?

The garden is open nightly from November 5th through January 3rd. Regular hours are 5 PM to 10 PM, with adjusted hours on Christmas Eve (5-8 PM), Christmas Day (CLOSED), New Year's Eve (5-8 PM), and New Year's Day (5-8 PM).

Is there an admission fee for the Holiday Cactus Garden?

No, admission to the Holiday Cactus Garden is free. However, there are costs associated with purchasing hot chocolate, cocktails, and Ethel M Chocolates.

Can I bring my pet to the garden?

No, pets are not allowed in the cactus garden for their safety due to the exposed cacti. Service animals are permitted.

When is Santa available for photos?

Santa is available daily from 5 PM until one hour prior to closing, up through December 23rd. The line cut-off for Santa photos is 9 PM sharp.

Are reservations required to visit the garden?

No, reservations are not required for the Holiday Cactus Garden. Visitors can stroll through the garden freely during operating hours.

Tags

holiday light displaysSanta visitsfamily friendlyfestive foodseasonal activitiescommunity celebrationlight displaysholiday traditionhot chocolateNew Years Eve

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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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 10, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team