Lake Julian Festival of Lights returns Dec. 1-23

Arden --  A holiday tradition for many mountain families returns Lake Julian Park (37 Lake Julian Rd. in Arden) in December.

Festival of Lights continues with all its illuminated magic and more, as the annual event now finds itself on a mission.

“People need joy,” says Peyton O’Conner, Director of Buncombe County Recreation Services. “Festival of Lights is a fun, inexpensive, festive prescription to celebrate the season and make memories. As the original – and longest running – drive-thru holiday light show in the area, we’re excited to again turn on the tradition of making spirits bright.”

Lake Julian Festival of Lights enters its 21st year with new displays and themes to thrill visitors of all ages, nightly from 6-9 p.m. from Dec. 1-23. The festival thrives from its connection to the community; 20% of proceeds are donated to Special Olympics Buncombe County, while the remaining income is reinvested to enhance the festival for the following year.

Visitors can expect the drive circling Lake Julian Park to transform into a magical journey with tunnels of dazzling animated and stationary light displays. Visitors are invited to watch the lights twinkle over the lake and listen to their own favorite holiday music while they take in the sights.

Vehicle entry for the Festival of Lights is $10 per passenger vehicle, $25 for large vans, and $50 for motor coaches and buses. Tickets will only be sold online at buncomberecreation.simpletix.com.

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