The Festival of Lights at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Kensington, Maryland, has seen record crowds this year, driven by internet exposure and social media. Meanwhile, other light festivals in Suffolk, Virginia, and Oakfield, Tennessee, are also drawing visitors, with some events affected by weather conditions and community fundraising efforts.
Holiday light displays are a cherished tradition across the United States, drawing crowds of all ages to marvel at the festive decorations. This year, the Festival of Lights at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' temple in Kensington, Maryland, has experienced unprecedented attendance, attributed to the power of the internet and social media. Similar events in Suffolk, Virginia, and Oakfield, Tennessee, are also attracting visitors, though they face unique challenges and opportunities.
The Festival of Lights at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ temple in Kensington, Maryland, has become a major attraction, drawing tens of thousands of visitors. Temple Visitor Center Director Dave Colton remarked on the overwhelming popularity, noting that on Christmas Day alone, 10,000 people visited the center, with another 10,000 exploring the temple grounds. The surge in visitors is partly due to enhanced programming, including live musical entertainment, as well as increased awareness through the internet and social media. However, the influx has led to traffic and parking challenges in the surrounding neighborhoods. Efforts are underway to mitigate these issues, including the potential implementation of timed entrance tickets and local traffic signs to manage the flow of visitors [1].
In Suffolk, Virginia, the Festival of Lights at Sleepy Hole Park faced a temporary setback due to inclement weather, leading to the cancellation of its Sunday night display. The event, organized by the City of Suffolk Parks & Recreation Department, is scheduled to resume on Monday, weather permitting, marking the final night of the season. The drive-through light display is free and open to the public, offering a festive experience for local residents and visitors alike. Despite the weather challenges, the community remains eager to enjoy the holiday lights before the season concludes [2].
In Oakfield, Tennessee, the Festival of Lights at Pugh Bourne Park offers a unique blend of holiday cheer and community support. The drive-through light display is open nightly through January 3, with proceeds from the $10 per vehicle entry fee benefiting the Beech Bluff Recreation Center's playground fundraiser. Visitors can also purchase hot cocoa and contribute canned food donations for the Regional Inter-Faith Association (RIFA). This event not only provides a festive outing for families but also supports charitable causes, demonstrating the spirit of giving during the holiday season [3].
The Festival of Lights events across the United States highlight the enduring appeal of holiday traditions and the power of community engagement. In Kensington, Maryland, the influx of visitors due to internet exposure has created challenges but also demonstrates the widespread interest in such displays. Meanwhile, in Suffolk, Virginia, and Oakfield, Tennessee, local festivals bring joy to residents while addressing weather-related disruptions and supporting charitable causes. These events underscore the importance of balancing celebration with community considerations, ensuring that holiday lights continue to shine brightly for all.