The Farr Side: Find the joy in Christmas lights
Now that Thanksgiving is behind us things are going to start looking a lot like Christmas. But, what is there to do? The answer to that is there is a lot to do in and all around the area. From holiday-themed concerts and shows to festive city and downtown events. You can even take in some of your favorite Christmas movies on the big screen in some theatres and drive-ins. But, if you’re not a fan of large crowds or are COVID-conscious, you still have options to enjoy the season.
Drive-thru lighting displays are nothing new. It seems that the trend has been growing over recent years with new displays popping up all the time. I haven’t really taken the time to actually go to one until now. I love Christmas lights, too, but, it wasn’t anything I had experienced before. And guess what? You don’t have to get out of your car or wear a mask either. Plus, you’re social distancing!
Last weekend, a buddy and I decided to take a drive. We end up in the tourist-y town of Shipshewana, Ind. Shipshewana is known for its vast Amish heritage, unique shops, eateries, entertainment venues, shops and flea markets. This time of year you can add “Lights of Joy” to that long list of things to see and do.
You’re in for a treat the moment you hit the town square by the famed Blue Gate Restaurant and Theatre. Thousands of beautiful lights illuminate the landscaping with just as many adorning the welcoming buildings. If that were the only lights to see it would still be worth a visit. But, they don’t stop there. All of the blocks surrounding the town square are lit up, too. It’s just beautiful. Plus, the ever-changing lights on the giant three-story Christmas tree mesmerize all who see it.
“Lights of Joy” is located just down the road at Shipshewana RV Park. What a way to re-envision a campground in wintertime!
We quickly got in line with all the other cars, purchased a ticket and waited our turn.
We were advised to tune the radio to a certain designation and proceed. With hot chocolate in hand, some freshly made caramel corn and Christmas music piped through the radio we were ready.
“Lights of Joy” is a 1.4-mile excursion through a myriad of beautiful holiday-themed light displays with over 2 million LED bulbs. It was gorgeous and almost overwhelming.
My eyes almost didn’t know where to look first, there was so much to see. The weather was nice, which made things even more pleasant. I loved hearing the voices of little ones coming from other vehicles as they made their way. I couldn’t help but get caught up singing along to the songs as we drove through the lights.
Words fail to describe just how gorgeous this light display is. It is something I’ll never forget and will definitely be doing again! I have to give huge kudos to those across the country for doing this and giving people the chance to enjoy something so beautiful.
So, you see, there are things to do and memories to be made. I might suggest you pick up a bag of freshly popped caramel kettle popcorn and a cup of hot chocolate for a fun family experience or a date night with that special someone.
— David T. Farr is a Journal correspondent. Email him at farrboy@hotmail.com.
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: The Farr Side: Find the joy in Christmas lights
