Salem, Illinois · The official website of The Yates Family

About us

About The Yates Family

We're The Yates Family of Salem, Illinois, and we create the Christmas Lightshow for our community to enjoy.

Illustration: coils of Christmas lights on a workbench, ready for the show

Our story

Where it all began

Every family has its Christmas traditions. Ours grew into a lightshow we get to share with everyone. Behind every season is a lot of planning, building and testing, and it's all for the moment the lights come on and people smile.

Our mission

Why we do it

  • Creating memorable experiences that families look forward to every year.
  • Bringing people together around the lights, the music and the season.
  • Family entertainment that's welcoming for every age.
  • Community first, with respect for our neighbors.
  • Holiday magic, made by hand, one light at a time.
The Yates Family Christmas Lightshow event artwork

Our events

The Christmas Lightshow, and what's next

The Christmas Lightshow is our main event. When we announce new shows and events, you'll find them on our Events page and on our official Eventbrite page.

Our community

Made for Salem

Salem is home. The lightshow is our way of giving something back: a free, family-friendly place to slow down, gather and enjoy the season together.

December 1–31, 2026 · Salem, Illinois

Make it part of your Christmas

Reserve your free ticket for The Yates Family Christmas Lightshow on Eventbrite.