Welcome to the SWHLE Mini

Anyone interested in holiday lighting should attend.
It’s designed for complete beginners, hobbyists who want to level up, and seasoned veterans looking to refine skills or network.
If you want to learn from top people in the hobby, attend classes, and connect with like-minded lighting enthusiasts (plus access vendor discounts), this event is for you. Classes will include instruction on Light-O-Rama, xLights, static displays, projection mapping, and much more.

Who Should Join?

Why Attend?

• Learn practical skills from top experts in the holiday lighting hobby through focused classes.

• Get ideas and inspiration from real-world setups and other enthusiasts’ experiences.

• Network with a local community of like-minded lighting fans and potential collaborators.

• Access limited-time vendor discount codes on hardware, sequences, and other gear.

• Accelerate your progress—whether you're just starting a display or refining an advanced one.

What's Included?

• Full-day access to class sessions and topics for all types of lighting enthusiasts.

• Breakfast, Lunch, snacks, and drinks to keep you energized!

• Great opportunity for networking with fellow lighting enthusiasts.

• Door Prizes & more.

BONUS: FREE pick-up from Gilbert Engineering USA for attendees!

Where and When?

Located in Chandler, AZ at the Avion Center.

• April 18, 2026 8am - 5pm - Main Conference

• April 16-17, 2026 - Pre-Conference all day sequencing intensives.

Education

Hands-on sessions for all skill levels, from beginner basics to advanced techniques.

2-Day xLights Sequencing Intensive

Pre-mini workshops on April 16–17 with expert Ron Howard, focusing on practical xLights skills.

Main Conference Classes

April 18 classes cover lighting design, software tips, and community roundtables to share ideas.

Location

Avion Center in Chandler, AZ

SWHLE Mini Attendee Map

Gallery

Snapshots from past Southwest Holiday Lighting Experiences.