Bright Nights light show originated from Spirit of Springfield as a way for the community to come together. Each display that is set up along the 2.5 mile trail in Forest Park, is designed and built by skilled craftsmen.

Opening in late November and closing up in early January, Bright Nights is perfect for the holiday season.

Chelsea Melanson, who works at Bright Nights as a greeter/seller (or for the sake of the kids, as an Elf), said, “For me personally, I’ve been coming here ever since I was a little kid because my grandparents are in the town over. So I’ve been coming here since I was little.”

Kyra Wilk, also an Elf, commented on the guests that visit the park. “I would say a lot of families with kids, sometimes you get the couples, you know, later in the evening, and we’ve even gotten the originals, you know, they’re by themselves which is cool. I mean, hey man, if you don’t have anyone to spend the holidays with, this is a great way to get your spirits up.”

The Bright Nights display features trips through Whoville, the Garden of Peace, Jurassic World, Never Land, Toy Land, and many more. There is also a snack bar, and if you look really hard, Santa’s Workshop is hidden away in the forest, too.

Frankie Walsh, who works in the office for Spirit of Springfield and in the gift shop at night, said, “We sell Bright Nights memorabilia. Just T-Shirts, ornaments, mugs, in addition to candy and chocolate that’s all hand-crafted, and different toys and things for the kids, and you can also get your photos taken with Santa Claus.”

Bright Nights is open 5p.m. – 9p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5p.m. – 11p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays. Ticket prices, directions, and special events held at Bright Nights can be found on their website: www.brightnights.org