The Smoky Mountain Event Center in Waynesville, North Carolina, is the host of the Strand of Lights Drive-Thru event, a captivating Christmas light show that takes place at the former Haywood County Fairgrounds. This annual event has become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique and enchanting way to experience the magic of the holiday season.
The Strand of Lights Drive-Thru Event
The Strand of Lights Drive-Thru event is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Great Smoky Mountains region during the Christmas season. The event features a nearly one-mile route through the fairgrounds, showcasing a dazzling array of Christmas lights and displays. Guests can enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of their own vehicles, making it a perfect family-friendly activity.
Dates and Location
The Strand of Lights Drive-Thru event typically starts on November 25th and runs through the month of December. The event is held at the Smoky Mountain Event Center, formerly known as the Haywood County Fairgrounds, located at 758 Crabtree Road, Waynesville, NC 28785.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the Strand of Lights Drive-Thru event must be purchased in advance and online. Guests can reserve their desired day and a 1-hour time slot to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The cost is $20 per vehicle, and there is no limit on the number of people who can be in the vehicle, as long as they are legally seated. However, buses and campers are not allowed.
The Driving Experience
The Strand of Lights Drive-Thru event is a true drive-thru experience, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning light displays from the comfort of their own vehicles. The route winds through the fairgrounds, offering a unique and immersive holiday experience. Guests can expect to exit the event back onto Highway 209 after their journey through the dazzling lights.
Additional Amenities
While the Strand of Lights Drive-Thru event is the main attraction, the Smoky Mountain Event Center also offers additional amenities to enhance the experience. Guests can visit the on-site concession stands to enjoy hot chocolate, coffee, and other festive treats. Additionally, the event center has ample parking to accommodate all visitors.
Unique Aspects of the Smoky Mountain Event Center Christmas Lights
The Smoky Mountain Event Center Christmas Lights event stands out from other holiday light displays in several ways:
-
Drive-Thru Experience: The event is designed as a drive-thru experience, allowing guests to enjoy the lights from the comfort of their own vehicles. This makes it an accessible and convenient option for families and individuals of all ages.
-
Fairgrounds Setting: The event takes place at the former Haywood County Fairgrounds, providing a unique and picturesque backdrop for the light displays. The fairgrounds setting adds to the overall festive atmosphere.
-
Nearly One-Mile Route: The nearly one-mile route through the fairgrounds ensures that guests can experience a wide variety of light displays and holiday-themed scenes, making it a truly immersive experience.
-
Rain or Shine Event: The Strand of Lights Drive-Thru event is a “rain or shine” event, ensuring that guests can enjoy the lights regardless of the weather conditions.
-
Advance Ticketing: Guests are required to purchase tickets in advance and online, allowing for better crowd management and a more organized event experience.
Conclusion
The Smoky Mountain Event Center Christmas Lights, or the Strand of Lights Drive-Thru event, is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holiday season in the Great Smoky Mountains region. With its dazzling light displays, unique drive-thru format, and picturesque fairgrounds setting, this event offers a truly unforgettable and enchanting experience for visitors of all ages.
References:
- https://www.smokymountaineventcenter.org/events/event/strand-of-lights-drive-thru/
- https://www.smokymountaineventcenter.org
- https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/strand-of-lights-drive-thru-light-show-23219
- https://www.explorebrysoncity.com/events/christmas-holiday/christmas-lights/
- https://www.smokymountaineventcenter.org/calender-of-events/