Celebrate the holiday season early this year as Lights of the South opens for the fall and winter season on Friday evening, Nov. 17.
Showcasing millions of lightbulbs, Lights of the South is a CSRA community tradition that shares the spirit of Christmas through incorporated scripture and religious holiday scenes.
Co-owner Mark Jackson, who enjoyed the spectacle yearly prior to officially getting involved, said many families look forward to the exhibition every year.
“They come from all over,” said Jackson. “We get a lot of families that come back year after year and say this is what they look forward to when they come back home for the holidays.”
Featuring a giant display of the American flag in addition to several historical figures, Lights of the South also pays homage to the country’s patriotic spirit, and even salutes the U.S. Armed Forces by representing the various branches and the Blue Angels.
Started back in 2005, Jackson said Lights of the South was created to bring families together while giving them the chance to make cheerful holiday memories.
“I think these kinds of events bring families together … there’s so much to do here as a family when you come,” he said. “It’s important to have good, clean family events that you can bring everyone to, because it’s not for anyone specific – it’s for the young and old.”
As guests enjoyed hotdogs, hamburgers, hot chocolate, apple cider and more, young children could be seen running around a Chrstimas-themed maze and enjoying play areas.
“I just love to see [my son’s] face and his excitement,” said Melissa McNeely, an attending local mother and Augusta native. “It allows them to build traditions.”
While some heated up marshmallows by the fireplace to make delicious s’mores, others embarked on an exciting tour through the grounds on a tractor to view the holiday lights or partook in some Christmas shopping.
For young adults Pax Craig and Summer Doyle, who were visiting with family and friends, Lights of the South allowed all visitors to remember their childhood while allowing people the opportunity to truly connect with family members.
“I’ve always come here. It’s such a nostalgic thing and it’s so entertaining,” said Craig. “It lets you think about all the good times with friends and families.”
Originally from Tennessee and moving to Augusta two years ago, Doyle said her family quickly incorporated Lights of the South into their Georgia holiday traditions because it allowed everyone to remember childhood.
“It feels very homey,” said Doyle. “People need to bond, and bonding over something like Christmas lights is shared between all generations. So, we can come together and just have fun.”
Preparing months in advance thanks to a dedicated lighting team, Jackson said Lights of the South would not be possible without the help of many community workers and members.
“It’s definitely a lot of work,” Jackson said. “It’s not one person; it’s a huge team that makes all this possible.”
As families walked the trails, posed for photos with Santa Clause and enjoyed sweet treats, Jackson said he hoped each went home filled with Christmas cheer and wonderful memories.
“I think when they come out here, kids and families alike will always remember coming to Lights of the South and seeing Santa Claus and all the lights,” he said. “I think it just brings a lot of joy to so many. To me, it’s just a great place to be.”
Lights of the South will be open everyday until Dec. 30 from 6 to 10 p.m., excluding Christmas.
Tickets are $16 Monday to Thursday and Sunday, and $20 Fridays and Saturdays. Kids age 3 and under enter for free.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit: https://lightsofthesouth.com/
