Sunset Hills - bare tree during sunset
1 / 10

Sunset Hills

4.6
·491k reviews·Greensboro, United States

A charming Greensboro neighborhood famous for its magical holiday light display, the 'Running of the Balls,' and its picturesque, walkable streets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Holiday evenings

Magical light displays

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Sunset Hills - bare tree during sunset

Sunset Hills

Best Time

Holiday evenings

Magical light displays

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming Greensboro neighborhood famous for its magical holiday light display, the 'Running of the Balls,' and its picturesque, walkable streets.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience the magic of thousands of glowing orbs transforming trees into a winter wonderland!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive or Walk the Lights

Experience the holiday lights by car or on foot. Walking allows for a more immersive view of the magical orbs.

📅 Check Holiday Dates

The famous 'Running of the Balls' is a holiday tradition, so confirm exact dates for the light displays each year.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Running of the Balls

The Running of the Balls

Throughout the neighborhood

Thousands of glowing orbs illuminate the trees, creating a magical, floating lantern effect. A truly unique holiday spectacle!

Historic Homes & Tree-Lined Streets

Historic Homes & Tree-Lined Streets

Residential streets

Wander through a picturesque neighborhood with charming, historic houses and mature trees. Perfect for a peaceful walk.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Holiday Light Spectacle

During the holiday season, Sunset Hills transforms into a magical wonderland with thousands of glowing orbs. Plan your visit for evenings to witness this breathtaking display. It's a free, community-driven event that brings immense holiday cheer.

Neighborhood Charm

Beyond the lights, Sunset Hills is a charming, walkable neighborhood known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll any time of year, offering a glimpse into a friendly community.

Best Times

When
Holiday evenings
Why
Magical light displays
Crowd
High
When
Daytime, spring-fall
Why
Pleasant walks & charm
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of Greensboro’s most magical traditions ✨: the lighted balls of Sunset Hills! Each year, this neighborhood transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of glowing orbs suspended in the trees, lighting up the night and spreading holiday cheer. A must-see for the season! #SunsetHillsLights #GreensboroTradition #HolidayMagic #VisitGreensboro
@visitgreensboro
20 likes • 1.1K views

🚗 Drive or Walk the Lights

Experience the holiday lights by car or on foot. Walking allows for a more immersive view of the magical orbs. TikTok

📅 Check Holiday Dates

The famous 'Running of the Balls' is a holiday tradition, so confirm exact dates for the light displays each year. TikTok

#christmaslights #holidaylights #neighborhoodlights #sunsethills #greensboronc
@thegotogreensboro
124 likes • 6.8K views
Looking for a place to refuel your faith midweek?✨ Join us for Tuesday Night Service! Incredible worship, an uplifting word, and a community that feels like family awaits! Sunset Hills @ 7 PM CT Royal Palm Chapel @ 8 PM ET Online @ 7 PM
yourfaithchurch
617 likes • 23.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Neighborhood

Beyond the lights, Sunset Hills is a beautiful, walkable area with charming homes and friendly vibes. InstagramReddit

📸 Capture the Magic

Bring your camera to capture the stunning holiday light displays; videos often don't do them justice! TikTok

POV: You’re relocating to Greensboro… and THIS is what your evening walk looks like! Sunset Hills is one of those neighborhoods that feels like a storybook. Tree-lined sidewalks, charming homes with character, and neighbors waving as you pass by with your pup. It’s the kind of place where every walk feels like a breath of fresh air — and trust me, you’ll never get tired of the views. Thinking...
amber_the_agent_
39 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive or Walk the Lights

Experience the holiday lights by car or on foot. Walking allows for a more immersive view of the magical orbs. TikTok

📅 Check Holiday Dates

The famous 'Running of the Balls' is a holiday tradition, so confirm exact dates for the light displays each year. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Neighborhood

Beyond the lights, Sunset Hills is a beautiful, walkable area with charming homes and friendly vibes. InstagramReddit

📸 Capture the Magic

Bring your camera to capture the stunning holiday light displays; videos often don't do them justice! TikTok

🤝 Support Food Drives

Many residents use the light display as an opportunity for neighborhood food drives. Consider bringing a donation. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sunset Hills is widely celebrated for its enchanting holiday light display, the 'Running of the Balls,' which transforms the neighborhood into a magical wonderland. Visitors praise its charm, walkability, and community spirit. Some find parking challenging during peak holiday hours.

What People Like

Magical holiday lights
Charming neighborhood
Walkable streets

What People Dislike

Crowded during holidays
Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sunset Hills is a neighborhood in Greensboro, NC. It's easily accessible by car. For the holiday lights, many visitors drive through or park nearby and walk. TikTok+1

Yes, Sunset Hills is known for being a very walkable neighborhood with tree-lined sidewalks and charming homes. TikTokInstagramReddit

You can either drive through the neighborhood slowly or park and walk around to fully appreciate the magical light displays. TikTok

While specific bus routes may vary, Greensboro does have public transportation options. It's best to check local transit schedules for routes serving the general area. TikTok

During the holiday season, parking can be challenging due to crowds. Look for street parking on side streets or designated areas if available. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, visiting Sunset Hills, especially to see the holiday lights, is completely free and open to the public. TikTok

The holiday lights are typically displayed throughout the evening during the Christmas season. It's best to visit after dark for the full effect. TikTok

There is no admission fee to enter the Sunset Hills neighborhood or to view the holiday light displays. TikTok

Yes, Sunset Hills is a residential neighborhood and can be visited year-round to enjoy its charm and architecture. The famous light display is seasonal. TikTok

The most prominent event is the 'Running of the Balls' holiday light display. The neighborhood also participates in community food drives. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The holiday light display is the prime photo spot, with the glowing orbs creating a magical atmosphere. The charming homes and tree-lined streets are also picturesque. TikTokInstagram

For the holiday lights, dusk and nighttime are ideal. During the day, the neighborhood's architecture and greenery are best captured in natural light. TikTok

As it's a residential neighborhood, be respectful of residents. Tripods are generally acceptable for personal photography, but avoid obstructing pathways. TikTok

For the light display, a tripod is highly recommended to capture sharp images in low light. Experiment with longer exposure times and a slightly higher ISO. TikTok

Drone usage is subject to local regulations and privacy concerns. It's advisable to check FAA guidelines and be mindful of residents before flying a drone. TikTok

🎫 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun

Yes, Sunset Hills is considered a great neighborhood for families, known for its charm, walkability, and proximity to schools. TikTok+1

The holiday light display is a major attraction for families. The neighborhood's walkability also makes it enjoyable for strolls with children. TikTok

Sunset Hills is generally considered a safe and family-friendly neighborhood with a strong community feel. TikTok

Sunset Hills is often associated with Grimsley High School, Kiser Middle School, and other well-regarded schools in the Greensboro area. TikTok

Yes, Sunset Hills is a pet-friendly neighborhood, and many residents enjoy walking their dogs there. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sunset Hills is a fantastic destination for families, especially during the holiday season. The 'Running of the Balls' light display is a magical experience that will captivate children of all ages, creating a whimsical atmosphere reminiscent of a fairytale. TikTok+1 It's a safe and engaging environment for kids to explore, whether you're driving through or taking a family walk. TikTok

Beyond the lights, the neighborhood's walkability and charming streets make it ideal for family strolls. It's a great place to teach children about community spirit and enjoy the outdoors. Plus, its reputation as a family-friendly area with good schools makes it an attractive place to live. TikTok+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Sunset Hills offers unique opportunities, particularly during the holiday season. The 'Running of the Balls' light display provides a stunning subject for low-light photography, with the glowing orbs creating a dreamlike effect. TikTok Consider bringing a tripod to capture sharp, atmospheric shots after dark. TikTok

During the day, the historic homes and mature trees offer a charming backdrop for architectural and street photography. The well-maintained sidewalks and friendly atmosphere encourage leisurely exploration, allowing you to capture the essence of this picturesque neighborhood. Instagram

❤️ Couples & Date Nights

Sunset Hills offers a wonderfully romantic setting, especially during the holidays. A drive or walk through the illuminated neighborhood is a perfect, cozy date night activity, filled with festive cheer and a touch of magic. TikTok+1 The enchanting glow of the orbs creates an unforgettable ambiance.

Even outside the holiday season, the charming streets and historic homes provide a beautiful backdrop for a romantic stroll. It’s a peaceful and picturesque setting to enjoy each other’s company and soak in the neighborhood’s unique character. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the 'Running of the Balls'

The most famous aspect of Sunset Hills is its spectacular holiday light display, often referred to as the 'Running of the Balls.' This unique tradition involves residents creating thousands of chicken wire orbs, which are then illuminated and suspended in the trees throughout the neighborhood. The result is a breathtaking spectacle that resembles floating lanterns or a winter wonderland, drawing visitors from all over. TikTok+1

This community-driven event is a testament to the neighborhood's festive spirit. It's not just about decoration; it often ties into charitable efforts, with some residents using the display to encourage food donations for local drives. TikTok The sheer scale and creativity involved make it a must-see during the holiday season, transforming the streets into a magical, glowing landscape. TikTok+1

Visitors can experience this magic by driving slowly through the streets or by parking and taking a leisurely walk. The best time to visit is after dark when the lights are fully illuminated. While it can get crowded, the enchanting atmosphere is well worth the visit, offering a truly memorable holiday experience. TikTok+1

A Charming Residential Neighborhood

Beyond its famous holiday lights, Sunset Hills is a highly desirable residential area in Greensboro, NC. It's characterized by its historic and charming homes, many of which are situated on tree-lined streets. This creates a picturesque and inviting atmosphere that residents and visitors alike appreciate. TikTokInstagram

The neighborhood is known for its walkability, offering residents easy access to local shops and restaurants. This creates a strong sense of community, where neighbors often greet each other and enjoy strolls through the well-maintained streets. TikTokReddit It's the kind of place where evening walks feel refreshing and the architecture tells stories of the past. Instagram

Sunset Hills is also recognized for its excellent schools, making it a popular choice for families looking to settle in Greensboro. TikTok+1 The combination of its aesthetic appeal, community feel, and convenient location makes Sunset Hills a sought-after neighborhood for those seeking a blend of charm and practicality. TikTok+1

You may also like