Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza draws record 723,000 visitors and $7.36 million economic impact

According to Visit Macon, the event drew 723,000 non-resident visits, a 10.3% increase over the 652,800 recorded during the 2023–2024 season.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza reported record visitation and economic impact for the 2025–2026 season, city officials said, outperforming the previous year despite a shorter calendar window.

According to Visit Macon, the event drew 723,000 non-resident visits, a 10.3% increase over the 652,800 recorded during the 2023–2024 season. Non-resident visits include all attendees from outside the Business Improvement District footprint, including commuters and traditional visitors.

Long-distance visitors, defined as those traveling 50 miles or more, grew 4.6% to 116,440, highlighting the event’s appeal as a regional attraction. The total economic impact of the season reached $7.359 million, averaging $193,678 per event day.

During peak viewing hours from 6 to 10 p.m., the blocks of Poplar and Third Street drew 107,700 evening visitors, a 12% increase over the previous year.

Visitors came from across the Southeast, with Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee ranking as the top five home states. The lights also boosted local commerce: 21.3% of visitors dined or shopped before the show, and 26.4% did so afterward.

The season also featured the debut of the Marché de Noël, Macon’s first European-style Christmas market. The inaugural 10-day event attracted 18,199 shoppers, with peak foot traffic on December 13. Organizers said the turnout signals strong community interest in new downtown experiences.

Bryan Nichols, Technical Director and Stage Manager of the Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza, released the following statement:

“What a season. Record-breaking economic impact, a bustling Marché de Noël bringing Cherry Street Plaza to life, and a 38-foot snowman welcoming visitors on Poplar Street at Rosa Parks Square. Watching this event grow while still delivering that same magic for families never gets old, and none of it would be possible without our incredible sponsors, partners, and volunteers. The best is still ahead: this coming year is our 10th anniversary, and Macon, you won’t want to miss it.”