Lights of the South

An annual holiday event for my family is to visit what started as a small light tour right outside of Augusta, Ga. The place is called 'Lights of the South' and is located at 633 Louisville Road Grovetown, Georgia. I do not know if I would refer to it as small anymore because they have expanded every year and never cease to amaze us. I look forward to being greeted by the dual candy cane entrance every year boasting the Lights of the South name.

The visit is very enjoyable for children and adults and is actually very affordable. The facility offers free parking and the prices are great at only $7.50 for an adult, $4.00 for ages 4-17, and children 3 and under are free. The 2009 season runs from November 20^th until December 30^th. You can avoid the crowd by either going early or going during the week as they are open daily (except Christmas Day) from 6-10pm.

There are walking paths to tour the lights, or you can choose to take a tractor pulled hayride. We, personally, enjoy taking the hayride. There are plenty of workers that lay steps down to help you on and off of the trailer and railing all around for safety. The speed at which they drive the tractors is adequate enough for you to see all of the light displays, but not so slow that the children will get bored. All of their favorite characters are sure to be spotted on their light tour as well. I must claim that some of my childhood favorites are out there.

There are even play areas that are lit up as light displays for the toddlers to have an opportunity to run around and get some of their energy out. These displays make great photo opportunities as well.

Santa and Mrs. Claus both have their own buildings on the property too. Santa is hearing the wishes of the children and posing for pictures, while Mrs. Claus is busy working in her kitchen to provide drinks and snacks. You can get everything from hot dogs to hot chocolate. Be sure to purchase your marshmallows here to roast over the open fire pits outside too. The kids really love to do this.

For you moms out there, I know I mentioned food and drinks, yes there are bathrooms on-site. Very nicely built, clean, and maintained. No port-a-potty at this hayride.

Overall, I think this facility has done an outstanding job providing family entertainment during the holidays. It's nice to know that we can expect something different (and probably even more spectacular) year after year. My family looks forward to it.