5 p.m. the snow is falling. The aroma of hot chocolate swirled in the crisp air. Families all around are bundled head to toe in cozy clothing. Stars sparkle in the night sky as cars line up ready to see the glimmering lights illuminate the darkness. New Haven Fantasy of Lights occurs at Lighthouse Point Park (2 Lighthouse Road, New Haven, CT 06512) every November and December.
The Fantasy of Lights is a non-profit organization run by Goodwill of Southern New England. LED light bulbs are used for all of the displays. This saves energy and electricity while also making everything more vibrant. The route is a mile long and features over 60 different light displays and 100,000 LED lights. Junior Alyssa Joye explains how the route is worth it.
Joye states, “The light show is beautiful and doesn’t feel like only a mile, it lasts much longer.”
In addition to the length of the light show, they may have less funding than a for-profit company. Joye speaks on how she thinks it’s very nice that employees do so much for a non-profit.
“I was shocked when I found out it is a charity because they do such a great job with the large show.” Joye says.
All proceeds go to Goodwill to support jobs, education, recreational and social openings for people with disabilities, and more.
The New Haven Fantasy of Lights is also a very affordable event to go to with your family. For a regular car or family van it only costs $10 for a ticket. A minibus costs $25 and a regular bus costs $50.
Senior Katrina Zeoli gives her insight on the cost of this event, “Winter activities usually cost a lot but the Fantasy of Lights is a good price for a good experience.”
Not only is the light show affordable for families, but it is also a great opportunity for families to grow closer together. Getting the family all in one car and making memories that will last a lifetime is what Fantasy of Lights is about. Sophomore Maya Fallon-Silva discusses how she and her family enjoy getting out together to have fun in the winter months.
“I love being able to do something fun and bonding with my family.”
Fallon-Silva likes spending quality time with her family at the Fantasy of Lights at the end of the year.
Fallon-Silva continues, “The Fantasy of Lights gets me in the winter spirit!”.
The Fantasy of Lights will be open Friday, November 17, 2023, through Sunday, December 31, 2023 at 5 o’clock.
