In a year where celebration after celebration has been cancelled, it really lifted my spirits to be able to go to the Night of Lights OC Drive-Thru Experience with my family last night. A big fan of the Winter Fest extravaganza from years past, I was excited that they were able to find a COVID-friendly way to light up the nights this holiday season!
And luckily for me, I find Christmas lights to arguably be one of the best parts of any holiday celebration. The guided experience through a clearly defined mile-long route did not disappoint with the holiday scenery, special effects (think snow flurries and bubbles), and animated light shows and tunnels synchronized to music through our car radio.
With medical professionals in our family, and grandparents who live nearby, we have been very conservative with our outings this year. Since we were able to enjoy this experience in the safety of our own car, we felt extremely comfortable and actually really enjoyed the warmth of the car and the intimate experience of being in our own little family bubble.
My kids both repeatedly said “this is awesome,” and “I don’t want this to end!” Their favorite parts? The people “performing” throughout, like dancing candy canes, women on stilts, and even the Big Man himself. And then of course, the snow flurries (my personal favorite). I only wish that section lasted longer!!
While the price is a little steep with tickets starting at $49.99 per car (I was able to preview for free on media night), this was exactly what my family and I needed to make this December a little more festive. With so many of our traditions being skipped this year, I’ve been a bit melancholy. But last night was FUN! And my kids’ smiles (behind the masks)? PRICELESS!
NOW, THE DETAILS:
Tickets & Pricing
Entry to the event is through online ticket purchases only at NightOfLightsOC.com. Entrance begins at 5 p.m. with time sessions available until 9:30 p.m. Limited reservations are available per time session.
General admission tickets start at $49.99 per vehicle (up to five people) on select nights. Larger vehicle tickets (six to nine people) start at $59.99 on select nights. Vehicle height is limited to 8 feet or less, due to the light tunnels.
Pre Order In-Car Holiday Food Treats
Holiday favorite treats are available before entering the Night of Lights OC experience through pre-order when purchasing tickets. Seasonal favorites include hot cocoa, cinnamon sugar donuts, as well as Mom’s Bake Shoppe cookie buckets and brownies, tamales, Holiday ‘Family 4 Pack’ meals, and much more. Food is available to order online by 10 a.m. on the date of admission and will be available to pick-up prior to entering the drive-thru experience.
Community Heroes Discounts
Every Monday, Night of Lights OC will honor local community heroes with a special $5 off coupon for teachers, military personnel, law enforcement, medical workers and firefighters.
- Dec. 14 Salute to Teachers: Eligible guests can use the code “TEACH” and bring their relevant Teacher ID for onsite verification.
- Dec. 21 Salute to Military and Law Enforcement: Eligible guests can use the code “SERVICE” and bring their relevant Military or Law Enforcement ID for onsite verification.
- Dec. 28 Salute to Medical Workers: Eligible guests can use the code “FIRSTAID” and bring their relevant Medical ID for onsite verification.
- Jan. 4 Salute to Firefighters: Eligible guests can use the code “FIRE” and bring their relevant Firefighter ID for onsite verification.
For more information, visit WinterFestOC.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @WinterFestOC.
