Warm Beach Camp Opens 30th Anniversary Light Show in Stanwood

Stanwood, WA, Warm Beach Camp & Conference Center has opened its 30th annual Lights of Christmas display on 20800 Marine Drive. The event marks three decades of the holiday attraction, which now features a redesigned walking experience across the campus grounds.

The attraction has operated in Stanwood for 30 years. The 2026 season represents the 30th anniversary of the event. Warm Beach Camp & Conference Center, a ministry that serves families, churches, and schools, hosts the display on its property. Proceeds from ticket sales support the camp's year-round programs.

The current layout spans more than one mile of walking paths. Sidewalks connect various decorated areas to form a continuous route. Kayla Castiglione, the director of the Lights of Christmas, stated that the venue has added numerous changes for this year's iteration. "There is so much more to experience this year," Castiglione said. "There are so many fun changes, and we are excited for guests to experience The Lights of Christmas in a whole new way!"

New features this year include a Mrs. Claus Bake Shop and a Candy Parlour. The bake shop partners with Merry Little Baker, a local Stanwood bakery, to sell cookie-decorating kits. The Candy Parlour allows visitors to purchase custom mixes of vintage and holiday candy by weight. A Color Blossom display features 600 flowers that change color when visitors use interactive wands.

The event also includes a Food Village with seating and local food trucks. Vendors serve warm holiday drinks and the venue's signature mini donuts. A special anniversary donut is available exclusively during this season. An indoor Holiday Market, designed to resemble a European Christmas market, returns with craft and artisan vendors. A stage in the market hosts live entertainment.

Themed areas guide visitors through a visual story along the path. A Gingerbread Lane features illuminated gingerbread homes. A Candyland section displays giant donuts, cupcakes, and gummy bears hanging from trees. The Candy Cane Express Train operates along a route illuminated by thousands of lights. Santa Claus poses for photos in front of a tower of gifts in Santa's Village. The Toy Shop in that area sells gifts, toys, and wooden craft kits.

Warm Beach Camp Ministries maintains a prayer room for guests. The space allows visitors to pause and reflect. Castiglione said the team invites guests to write prayers on paper tags and hang them on trees and walls inside the room. "We have the honor of creating a space where people can share their prayers with our team," Castiglione said. "It is such an honor to provide a place where people feel safe to share their hearts and their deepest prayers with us."

The lights are scheduled for 18 select nights from November 27 through December 28. The event remains open regardless of weather conditions unless a power outage or severe storm occurs. A drive-through option is available for specific nights to accommodate drivers and those with mobility needs. The venue offers a decorated event space for private bookings of up to 100 people. Advance online admission is required for entry.

Maria R., a reviewer on Yelp, cited the ship, dolphins, penguins, and a tree resembling a scene from the movie Avatar as favorite displays. Patti W., another reviewer, described the event as a beautiful way to remember the meaning of Christmas. The display includes new light installations and festive characters designed for photography opportunities throughout the campus.