The votes are in! Elmhurst’s 2025 Deck the Homes contest finalists have been announced and these nine homes are ABSOLUTELY worth the drive.
From synchronized light shows with radio stations to elaborate winter wonderlands, this year’s finalists went all out.
So, grab your hot cocoa, pile the family in the car, and follow this guide to the official Elmhurst Christmas lights tour.
Here’s your stop-by-stop map to the most festive homes in town.
About the Deck the Homes Contest
The Elmhurst Park District’s annual Deck the Homes contest celebrates residents and businesses who deck their homes in spectacular holiday displays. Participants submit photos of their decorated properties, which are then featured on an interactive community map.
Voting ran December 15-19 and the winner was announced on December 19th.
This year’s nine finalists represent the best of Elmhurst’s holiday spirit…and they’re all free to visit!
Your 2025 Elmhurst Christmas Lights Tour Map
581 W Gladys Ave, Elmhurst, IL
Start your tour at 581 W Gladys Ave, where classic elegance sets the tone. This home features clean white lights outlining the roofline and windows, with a stunning illuminated wreath over the garage door. The entrance is beautifully framed with garland and lights, creating a warm, welcoming glow against the brick exterior. It’s traditional holiday decorating done right, sophisticated and timeless!
332 North Maple, Elmhurst, IL
Next stop: 332 North Maple, where the Christmas spirit comes alive with colorful lights and a cheerful front yard display. This home goes for a more playful approach with illuminated lawn decorations and multi-colored lights outlining the house (thanks to the Grinch). It’s the kind of display that makes kids (and kids at heart!) press their faces against the car window. It’s fun, festive, and full of holiday magic!
331 North Addison, Elmhurst, IL
Just down the street at 331 North Addison, you’ll find a warm and inviting display that mixes classic elegance with playful touches. The home glows with lights outlining the roofline, while the front yard features cheerful illuminated decorations and festive touches on the landscaping. It’s the perfect balance of traditional and fun!
355 Sherman, Elmhurst, IL
Next up, 355 Sherman Avenue features a spectacular synchronized light display complete with its own radio station. Tune in from your car and watch the lights dance to holiday music. The house is set up with multiple lighting zones that flash and change in perfect rhythm. This isn’t just a decorated house; it’s a full holiday experience. Kids (and adults) will be mesmerized watching the choreographed show. Plan to stay for at least one full song!
337 Cayuga, Elmhurst, IL
Unfortunately when we went to go visit 337 Cayuga, their lights weren’t on yet, so hopefully we’ll have an update soon!
928 Cambridge Avenue, Elmhurst, IL
928 Cambridge Avenue delivers one of the most enchanting displays on the tour. This home is absolutely glowing with coordinated multicolor lights covering everything from the roofline to the landscaping. Illuminated trees and carefully placed yard elements create a winter wonderland effect. It’s abundant without feeling cluttered. It’s just pure, elegant Christmas magic. This one is definitely worth slowing down for!
740 Washington, Elmhurst, IL
At 740 Washington, you’ll find one of the most creative displays on the tour. They’ve transformed their front yard into a charming Christmas tree lot, complete with Christmas gnomes manning the operation! The entire display glows with coordinated white lights, illuminated trees, and cascading light effects that bring the whimsical scene to life. It’s imaginative, beautifully executed, and absolutely delightful!
887 Saylor Avenue, Elmhurst, IL
At 887 Saylor Avenue, you’ll find a display that’s as cute as it gets. This home features cheerful, colorful lights outlining the roofline and windows, creating that warm, nostalgic Christmas glow we all love. Plus, this display features an interactive component: a beautifully lighted archway that you can walk through! The decorations are thoughtfully placed without being overwhelming. It’s simple, sweet, and full of genuine holiday spirit.
760 Hillside Avenue, Elmhurst, IL
Olaf’s Winter Spectacular
And the winner of the Deck the Homes contest is…Olaf’s Winter Spectacular at 760 Hillside Avenue! And this isn’t just a decorated house. This is a full-scale holiday production. The massive synchronized light display covers every inch of the property with elaborate structures, intricate patterns, and a Disney theme that come alive to music on their dedicated radio station. Plan to arrive, tune in, and stay for multiple songs because this display deserves your full attention. This is Elmhurst Christmas magic at its finest.
Tips for Your Elmhurst Christmas Lights Tour
Be Respectful: Remember, these are private homes. Enjoy the displays from the street, keep noise down in residential areas, and don’t block driveways.
Best Time to Go: Visit after dark (between 4:30-8:30 PM works great) to see the lights in all their glory. Weeknights tend to be less crowded than weekends.
Bring Hot Cocoa: Make it a tradition! Stop by Kilwin’s or Starbucks, or make some at home before you head out.
Tune to the Radio Stations: Don’t miss the synchronized displays at 355 Sherman and 760 Hillside. Tune your car radio to the station posted at each house.
More Holiday Fun in Elmhurst
Looking for more ways to celebrate the season? Check out our complete Christmas in Elmhurst guide for holiday events, festive dining, and local shopping ideas.
And don’t miss the Holly Trolley running every Saturday through December or the Holiday Flower Show at Wilder Park Conservatory.
CLOSING
Whether you’re a longtime Elmhurst resident or just visiting for the holidays, the Deck the Homes tour is a must-do tradition. These nine finalists put serious effort into spreading holiday cheer, and it shows.
So grab your people, cue up the Christmas playlist, and hit the road. Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals! 🎄
Want more Elmhurst updates? Subscribe to the Hey Elmhurst! newsletter for bi-weekly local news, events, and business spotlights.
