by Noella Noelophile®
Lights and Christmas magic just seem to go together.
And “Night of Lights OC” is about to make that magic happen again.
From Friday evening, November 26th (Friday after Thanksgiving!), through Sunday, January 2nd, this mile-long drive-through experience at the Orange County Fairgrounds will enchant visitors with more than a million lights. And that’s just a start.
As you drive into “Night of Lights OC”, you’ll go through a themed movie queue. Classic Christmas movies will be playing, and strolling entertainers may well offer you a cooky or other festive treat as you head into the experience.
Then, you’ll start your journey.
Inside “Night of Lights OC”, 2021 edition
New experiences at “Night of Lights OC”, which debuted in 2020, include an interactive Santa’s Workshop, according to a recent press release. A magical light show, with synchronized music, will capture the magic of Christmas on its way!
Then, you’ll get to see Toyland, with a toy chest brought to life. Model trains will chug through Steam Engine Springs. Right up through December 24th, you’ll get greeted by the jolly old elf, himself, as you experience Santa Takes Flight.
Plus, you can enjoy hot chocolate, tamales, cookies, and other seasonal treats, when you order in advance online by 10 am on your day of admission.
And–it’s going to snow.
But you won’t need to scrape the ice off your car–as you may recall doing if you’re a Southern California “transplant” from colder climes.
Instead, your car windows will get a dusting of snow flurries, perhaps a little more than in 2020, as one of “Night of Light OC’s” most popular vignettes, Winter Wonderland, returns.
Celebrating “community”
“Night of Lights OC allows you and your loved ones to enjoy the magic of the holiday season from the comfort and safety of your own vehicle,” said Night of Lights OC Executive Producer Katrina Carlson in a recent press release.
“Last year, guests were amazed that Night of Lights OC was so much more than a typical drive-thru light show,” she continued. “There was interactive entertainment and special effects that invited you to become a part of this unique experience.
“This year, we are planning to add even more unique experiences…we’re thrilled to bring holiday cheer to the Southern California community with a safe and fun activity for all ages.”
That “community” element is at the core of the experience.
New this year, “Night of Lights OC” has announced a partnership with the Power of One Foundation’s Annual Toy Drive. From opening night through Friday, December 17th, you’re encouraged to bring new toys for boys and girls ages 1-15. The “elves” at Santa’s Workshop will collect the gifts, which will be distributed to qualifying low-income families on select nights.
But be sure to order early. Tickets are available through online purchase only, with limited reservations available per time session. Early Bird general-admission rates for smaller vehicles (up to five people) are available on select nights, while supplies last.
Honoring our heroes
And if you’re a teacher, law-enforcement officer, member of our military, medical worker or firefighter–first of all, thank you! Secondly, keep these dates in mind for a discount of $5 off “Night of Lights OC’s” ticket price, as you purchase tickets online. According to their press release, they are:
- Salute to Teachers – December 1. Use the online code “TEACH” and bring your relevant Teacher ID for onsite verification.
- Salute to Military – December 8. Eligible guests can use the online code “HERO” and bring their relevant Military ID for onsite verification.
- Salute to Medical Workers – December 15. Eligible guests can use the online code “FIRSTAID” and bring their relevant Medical ID for onsite verification.
- Salute to Firefighters – December 22. Eligible guests can use the online code “FIRE” and bring their relevant Firefighter ID for onsite verification.
- Salute to Law Enforcement – December 29. Eligible guests can use the online code “SERVICE” and bring their relevant Law Enforcement ID for onsite verification.
Enjoy the magic, and make lots of special memories for Christmas season 2021!