This news item expired on Friday, December 23, 2022 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
Notice: Due to extreme cold temperatures predicted we are closed on Friday, Dec. 23.
A holiday tradition for many mountain families returns to Lake Julian Park (37 Lake Julian Rd. in Arden) in December. Festival of Lights brings its illuminated magic and more to light up the lake shore.
Festival of Lights is a fun, inexpensive way to celebrate the season and make memories. As the original – and longest running – drive-thru holiday light show in the area, is excited to once again turn on the tradition of making spirits bright.
Mark your calendars, Lake Julian Festival of Lights will thrill visitors of all ages, nightly from 6-9 p.m. from Dec. 2-23, with two special walk-thru nights on Dec. 2 & 3. The festival thrives from its connection to the community; twenty percent of proceeds are donated to Special Olympics Buncombe County, while the remaining income is reinvested to enhance the festival for the following year.
Visitors can expect the drive circling Lake Julian Park to transform into a magical journey with tunnels of dazzling animated and stationary light displays. Watch the lights twinkle over the lake and listen to your own favorite holiday music while taking in the sights.
For the walk-thru event admission is $5 and kids under 16 get in free. Vehicle entry for the Festival of Lights is $10 per passenger vehicle, $25 for large vans, and $50 for motor coaches and buses.
Inclement weather note: December can sometimes bring inclement weather in Buncombe County. Make sure to stay up to date with all the latest information by signing up for alerts and notifications from Buncombe County. Text bcalert to 99411.