Hot Springs Village Sparkles: An Unforgettable Holiday Illumination

A dazzling display for the community and visitors to enjoy!

Get ready to be absolutely dazzled! Since 2014, Century 21 HSV Realty has transformed the West Gate entrance and Visitor Center in Hot Springs Village into a mesmerizing wonderland of Christmas lights. What began as a modest effort has blossomed into an awe-inspiring spectacle over the past decade, with countless twinkling additions.

This magical journey began as a labor of love by Principal Broker Cheryl and her entrepreneurial husband Mark. Their mission started shortly after they convinced Cheryl’s mother to move from California to live with them. Mark’s mother, already a resident of Hot Springs Village, joined in the festive fun. A licensed home remodeler and contractor, Mark used his skills to create an enchanting display that has become a beloved community tradition.

The couple’s passion for creating holiday magic was sparked by a visit to the Texas State Fair, where they purchased a lighted tree for the village entrance. Inspired by videos of lights set to music, they launched their first small synchronized display in 2014, complete with a sign by the Grinch to tune your radio into the festive tunes at 88.1 FM.

Over the years, they’ve upgraded from LED to RGB (Red, Green, Blue) lights, creating a stunning array of colors. Despite facing challenges, including delayed shipments of RGB lights, they remain dedicated to enhancing their display each year.

Though both mothers have sadly passed away, the tradition lives on, shining brightly in their memory and bringing joy to the community.

In 2021, Terry Wiley, Parks and Recreation Director, contacted the Bourlands to decorate the main islands at the West Gate. Despite initially planning to pause their efforts that year due to Mark’s recent loss of his mother, the Bourlands agreed, and 2021 marked the first year the POA assisted with the installation.

Installing the display requires a week and a half collaborative effort between Mark, his crew, and the POA.

You’re invited to snap a picture with the Fairy Wings or the mega Christmas tree! For safety, please pose only in the Visitor Center area.

The lights shine brightly from 5:15 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. each night, weather permitting, and will remain up until around January 1.

Don’t miss out on this luminous celebration—tune your radio to 88.1 FM to hear the synchronized music.

Hot Springs Village wishes everyone a joyous and magical holiday season!

You may need to increase your volume to hear the music in the video below. Thanks!

By Cheryl Dowden; Video and photo by Joe Dowden