xLights Intensive Workshop
Learn xLights from the ground up! These workshops are unique to Christmas Expo.
2-Day Workshop, July 20-21, 2026, Dallas, TX
This hands-on intensive is designed to take you from the basics of xLights to building a fully functional show layout. Whether you’re brand new or looking to strengthen your foundation, this course will guide you step-by-step through the essential components of a successful light show.
Day 1:
- Introduction to xLights and core concepts
- Terminology and navigation
- Recommended settings for Preferences and window views
- Exploration of tabs, menus, and workflow
- Understanding network topology for light shows
- Controller and receiver relationships explained
Day 2:
- Designing a house layout in xLights
- Best practices (and common mistakes to avoid)
- Defining measurements and scaling
- Managing models in 2D and 3D
- Importing and creating models
- Custom submodels and grouping strategies
- Controller configuration and layout testing
This is a hands-on workshop—you’ll be working in xLights throughout the training with guided instruction.
Cost: $450.00 for 2 full days, includes lunch both days.
💡 OPTIONAL ADD-ON (Highly Recommended)
👉 Bundle Offer:
Register for both 2-Day Intensives and receive a $25 discount.
🎵 xLights Sequencing Intensive
2-Day Workshop, July 22-23, 2026, Dallas, TX
Take your sequencing skills to the next level in this immersive 2-day intensive focused on creating musical, high-impact xLights sequences.
Led by Ron Howard of xTreme Sequences, this workshop emphasizes intentional sequencing techniques that bring music to life—not just automated effects.
Day 1: Sequencing Foundations & Workflow
- How to plan a sequence
- Timing tracks and musical phrasing
- Effect selection and placement
- Color theory and movement
- Introduction to layer blending and transitions
- Building a sequence workflow that scales
Day 2: Advanced Techniques & Execution
- Deep dive into value curves and transitions
- Layer blending strategies and settings
- Bulk edit and efficiency techniques
- Shaders, images, Warp, and Kaleidoscope
- Singing faces and advanced mapping
- Building a polished sequence section in class
You’ll actively build a sequence during the workshop and walk away with techniques you can immediately apply to your own show.
Requirements:
- Bring your own laptop with xLights installed
Cost: $450.00 for 2 full days, includes lunch both days.
Software Notice
Any additional enhancements to the software between now and Christmas Expo will be covered in the class.
Instructor
As the landscape of light shows continues to evolve, Ron Howard from xTreme Sequences stands at the forefront, pioneering innovative techniques and leveraging high-density and 3D props to elevate the art form. With a keen understanding of the importance of pushing boundaries, Ron is dedicated to pushing the envelope of what’s possible in light displays.
Each year, Ron eagerly shares his expertise with newcomers to the thrilling realm of xLights, guiding them through its intricacies with enthusiasm and a commitment to humanizing technology. His passion for teaching is contagious, inspiring countless enthusiasts to delve deeper into the world of synchronized lighting.
Remaining ever vigilant on the cutting edge of xLights advancements, Ron is deeply involved in both commercial and residential projects, consistently delivering awe-inspiring results. His unparalleled expertise has garnered recognition from lighting aficionados worldwide, solidifying his status as a leading authority in the field.
xLights developer, Sean Meighan, has endorsed Ron Howard from xTreme Sequences to teach these in-depth workshops at Christmas Expo.
