In 2011, the band Coldplay came out with a holiday song that has become a staple of the season, one that talks about challenges but also the ever-present hope that comes with seeing the Christmas lights that are mentioned in the song’s title.

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The lyrics for the chorus highlight read:

“Those Christmas lights

“Light up the street

“Down where the sea and city meet

“May all your troubles soon be gone

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“Oh, Christmas lights keep shining on”

It’s a message that resonates with many of us during the dark and (usually) cold month of December, a time where some extra brightness and cheerfulness is welcome.

Christmas lights can be found in a variety of locations and patterns, colors and forms. Most enjoy having indoor lights on Christmas trees, garlands and other decorations. They also put lights outside on trees, bushes and their home itself. In addition, many add lights in the form of inflatable figures or projections on the walls.

All of these displays combine to create warmth and vibrancy in homes and neighborhoods — but there are also individuals, businesses and communities who take it to another level.

Here are a few examples of some of biggest, brightest and most brilliant displays in the Wasatch Front:

The Classics

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A few locations have had Christmas light displays that have become icons, places that people make special trips to see every year. Some examples include:

Temple Square, Salt Lake City: “The Temple Square Christmas lights and concerts are an annual tradition for many in the surrounding community of Salt Lake City, Utah. The lights are turned on each year the day after the United States Thanksgiving holiday and remain on through New Year’s Day. During these evenings, Temple Square is usually aglow with over one million lights.” — churchofjesuschrist.org

ZooLights, Hogle Zoo: ” Explore Explore Hogle Zoo’s annual holiday lighting event and step into a wonderland of lights, festive cheer, and magical moments perfect for families, date nights, and a fun night with friends. While the animals settle in for a silent night, the zoo comes alive with twinkling displays.” — Hogle Zoo

Aquarium Lantern Festival, Loveland Living Planet Aquarium:  “Discover the outdoor Rio Tinto Kennecott Plaza in a whole new light as larger-than-life, nature-inspired lanterns illuminate the night sky and spark your imagination. Let the Aquarium Lantern Festival be your escape into a stunning winter wonderland–where magic, nature, and light come alive.” — livingplanetaquarium.org

Luminaria, Thanksgiving Point: “Thanksgiving Point’s Ashton Gardens transforms into a glowing wonderland where every step sparks joy. Wander through 50 acres with 8 million lights, discover larger-than-life toys and ornaments, and experience the return of the dazzling Merry Mosaic. Marvel as snowmen come to life on the walls of the Enchanted Castle, then dance with your family at the Snow Glow Dance Party while the Fire & Ice show lights up the night with breathtaking flames and music.” — thanksgivingpoint.org

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Christmas Village, Ogden: “Christmas Village illuminates Ogden’s downtown area with magnificent displays and holiday lights every year from the Saturday after Thanksgiving through January 1st. Spectators find themselves in a dazzling winter wonderland set aglow with Christmas lights and a unique setting of cottages modeled after Santa’s village at the North Pole.” — ogdencity.gov

Festival of Lights, Spanish Fork: “Spanish Fork’s most charming tradition, 33 years running, is back. Join us for a drive-through winter wonderland built right here in your hometown. Reserve your spot and make this year’s memories shine a little brighter.” — spanishfork.gov

Fantasy at the Bay, Willard Bay: “Your ultimate holiday tradition is waiting at the Fantasy at the Bay Lights Show! Drive through miles of sparkling, spectacular lights that turn Willard Bay State Park into a true winter wonderland. It’s the coziest, most magical way to celebrate the season with family and friends.” — stateparks.utah.gov/parks/willard-bay

Christmas Cruise, Provo: “T’is the season for family and friends to gather and share in the light and love of our favorite season of the year – CHRISTMAS! Join us as we celebrate this special time of year with a wonderous boatride adventure on the Provo River! Enjoy festive decorations and thousands of lights that twinkle above the river with Christmas music playing softly in the background.” — clasropes.com

While these may be the most well-known Christmas light displays, there are many other ways to enjoy the lights of the season.

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Many cities have their own local displays to enjoy without the same crowds or costs that might come with some of the other presentations. Check with local communities to see what is going on in your area.

Many private citizens also pride themselves in their own holiday displays. There are suggested routes or community contributors who can share their favorites and take you to some of the best lit-up homes in your area.

Some cities like Springville have their own contests and provide addresses so citizens can vote on their favorites. Other neighborhoods create their own traditions, like the part of Lehi that has become known for its collection of giant inflatable Santa Clauses (and other Christmas figures).

Whether you are ready to go hunting for your own favorite Christmas light locations or just want to settle in and enjoy the soft glow in your own living room, those lights — just like Coldplay sang in their song — will “keep shining on” for all of us throughout the season.

"The Lights Before Christmas," a free holiday light display, is open in Layton Commons Park through Dec. 31.

"The Lights Before Christmas," a free holiday light display, is open in Layton Commons Park through Dec. 31.

Layton City's "The Lights Before Christmas" holiday display opens with a lighting ceremony on Monday, Nov. 25, at Layton High School, in Layton.