Drive around to see the Christmas lights

A Christmas lights tour is one of the easiest winter evenings to organise, because all you need is a car, a driver and a few streets. It is free, it works with a group or just one friend, and it is nice because you can stay warm the whole time.

When and where to go

Go after dark, which in winter comes early. Most displays are on from dusk until a set time in the evening, and some are turned off by late evening, so start earlier rather than later. A weeknight can be quieter than a weekend.

Choose your route ahead of time. Ask friends, look for local community pages, and check for park or garden displays that advertise their own dates and entry details. Some of those charge for entry or want you to book, and some are free to drive through. Check before you go so you do not turn up and find them closed.

If you want to find the best street in your area, drive around in daylight a week or two earlier and make a note of the houses that have decorations up. Then go back after dark and see them lit.

What to bring

Beyond the playlist, hot drinks and driver:

• A phone with a map, and your route saved, so no one has to read while the car is moving
• A blanket for the back seat, if the heater is slow
• Snacks that are easy to eat in a car, and a bag for trash
• A phone charger for the car
• A lidded cup for everyone, so a sudden stop does not mean a spill

If the weather is snowy or icy, check the road conditions before you leave and give yourself more time. Do not go out if the roads are unsafe.

How to do it

1. Choose the driver. One person drives and does not drink anything alcoholic, and everyone else picks the music.
2. Pick three or four streets or places. A short route is better than a long one. It leaves time to enjoy each stop and keeps the evening relaxed.
3. Drive slowly. Keep to a safe speed and watch for people walking, especially children and families who have come to look.
4. Open the window if you like. A few moments of cold air and music from outside is part of the fun, and the car heater can catch up afterwards.
5. Stop in a safe place. If you want to look longer or take a photo, pull over only where it is allowed and safe, and never stop in the middle of the road.
6. Vote. Pick a favourite house or display, and see if everyone agrees.

Being a good visitor

People put lights up for others to enjoy, but it is still their home. Stay in the car unless there is a sign inviting you to walk, keep to the road, and do not walk across lawns or driveways. Keep noise down, especially late in the evening. Do not block driveways or the road, and do not shine bright lights at windows.

If you walk through a display, wear warm shoes and stay on the paths. Keep an eye on the time, and dress in layers.

What goes wrong

• The roads are crowded. Go earlier, or on a weeknight, and pick quieter streets.
• The best house has no lights on. Some displays are off on certain days or after a set time. Check ahead if there is a place you really want to see.
• Someone feels car sick. Open a window, leave out the phone, and take a break with a walk.
• The car gets cold. Take a blanket and a thermos, and warm up the car before you set off.
• The weather turns. Fog, ice or snow make driving more dangerous. Leave early or choose another night.

Keeping the evening

Take a photo of your favourite house, and make a small list of the best places, so you can come back next year. You could also stop for a hot chocolate on the way home, or finish with a movie.

Make it a winter evening

Put the heater on, get everyone into the car with something hot to drink and make a game of choosing a winner. If you want to be on foot instead, a Christmas market gives you lights, food and a short walk, all in one place.