The Lights at Interlochen in Arlington begin Friday night, with organizers expecting 100,000 people to pass through over the next nine days. This year marks the 46th year for the display.
"It's kind of part of Arlington's tourism," says the Lake Interlochen Neighborhood Association's Ralph Sobel. "They may come for a high school football game and then stay for the lights. Hopefully, they come for a Cowboys' win and then stay for the lights."
More than 200 homes are participating this year.
"Some houses are totally spiritual. Others are totally commercial. There's lots to choose from," Sobel says. "People are looking in every direction. 'Did you see this? Did you see that?' They're enjoying it as a family, comparing notes."
Sobel is Jewish, but he says the Interlochen Lights have displays that can appeal to people of all faiths.
"There are very many people who are very spiritual about their displays, but mostly, people are looking to have a fun time," he says. "It's very mixed economically and with religion."
In addition to Santa and elves in his yard, Sobel has an inflatable menorah and even a Festivus pole.
"If there are any Seinfeld fans out there, we do air our grievances," he says. "That's part of the Festivus tradition."
Arlington Police will direct traffic during the Lights at Interlochen. Sobel says lines often snake through the neighborhood on the weekend, so people who want to avoid the biggest crowds might come on a weeknight. He says some people, though, look forward to the biggest crowds.
"Lots of people make it an event. They have snacks in the car," he says. "North Texas Jeep Club comes through, bicycle clubs come through, runners come through. People make it their own fun thing. To see some of the Jeeps and some of the other cars, they're part of the decorations."
Arlington Police urge patience, warning families if they leave the line, they will have to go to the end to get back in. Cars are not allowed to pass each other, so families are urged to use the bathroom ahead of time and bring snacks.
"[Police] are such an important part of this event," Sobel says. "They're away from their family. They're out there whether it's raining, whether it's cold, which it could be this weekend."
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