Lights Spectacular
Visitors can explore over two million twinkling lights across town, including illuminated oak trees and themed displays at Memorial Park and the PEC headquarters, alongside a laser show at the courthouse. Festivities feature hay rides, live entertainment, visits with Santa and The Grinch, a lighted parade, and local food and drink offerings.
What to Expect
Displays over two million lights once reported seen from space.
Event Details
Duration
Most visitors spend 2–3 hours; plan for 4–6 hours for the full experience with tractor rides, food, and entertainment.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Historic Downtown
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Lights Spectacular
Food & Drink
Opening weekend offers food and drinks at Santa’s Cafe and Rudolph’s Cantina; nearby local eateries, bars, and craft beverage tasting rooms offer festive specials throughout the season.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and twinkling
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free.
- Hours: From dusk to midnight.
- Parking: Street parking is available along non-residential downtown streets; arrive early for the best spots.
- Accessibility: All local light displays are wheelchair accessible to view.
- Pets: Pets are not specifically prohibited; keep them leashed, consider their comfort with crowds and noise, and pick up after them. Check local businesses' pet policies.
Tips & Advice
- Visit on a weeknight if you want fewer crowds, since weekend evenings are more festive but busier.
- Arrive early to get a street parking spot downtown, and drive carefully because the streets can get crowded on Saturday nights.
- Plan your visit for a Friday or Saturday if the kids want a hay ride, since that's when they run, weather permitting.
- Dress in layers with a hat and gloves, and bring comfortable walking shoes, because December evenings here range from about 40 to 65°F.
- Come out before sundown to walk the historic downtown and eat locally before the lights come on.
Special Events & Promotions
- Opening ceremonies with fireworks kick off the season.
- There's a local chili cook-off during the season.
- Outdoor movies are shown during the season.
- The Lighted Hooves & Wheels Parade features decorated tractors and classic cars.
- New this year: a laser show on the courthouse and lighted ornaments on the lawn while the courthouse is under construction.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What's different this year?
The courthouse is under construction, so it won't be lit. Instead there's a laser show on the courthouse and lighted ornaments on the lawn. Memorial Park and the PEC headquarters have over a million lights on oak trees, plus themed displays.
Is it good for kids?
Yes, it's family-friendly for all ages. Kids especially love the hay rides and interactive displays.
Is there food and drink?
Santa's Cafe and Rudolph's Cantina serve food and drinks on opening weekend. Local restaurants and bars are within walking distance all season.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress in layers, since December runs from about 40 to 65°F. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves. Blankets or portable chairs and a camera are worth bringing too.
How long should we plan to stay?
Most people spend 2 to 3 hours. Allow 4 to 6 hours if you want the tractor rides, food and entertainment too.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.