Wayne County Lightfest Dazzling The Community For 26 Years

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WESTLAND (WWJ) - Facing severe budget cuts in 1993 the Wayne County Park System had a bright idea. What started as "The Festival of Lights" has become a community tradition for area families and visitors.

Now it's the largest and longest drive-through light show in the Midwest. Watch the full show on video as recorded by WWJ Web Producer, George Fox.

The $5 per car fee is an affordable activity for a family to enjoy from the comfort of their cars. That's the same amount people paid back in '93, but it was a recommended donation back then. If you didn't want to donate, the staff would hand you a pre-addressed envelope to send in a donation if you changed your mind after seeing the show.

The entrance is located at Merriman Hollow Park (7651 Merriman Road, Westland, MI) and follows Hines Drive. Don't miss Santa’s Workshop at the end of the light show at Warrendale Park. Santa will be there from November 28 through December 23.

Wayne County Lightfest: By The Numbers
  • 4.5-miles in length
  • 70 giant animated holiday-themed displays
  • 250,000 carloads of visitors each year
  • 15 and 30 minutes to drive the route depending on traffic
  • More than 100,000 lights

In 2019, the show is scheduled to be open to the public on November 21 through December 31 daily from 7 to 10 p.m. As Christmas approaches and on the weekends, expect long wait times and a lineup of cars. Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds.