Fairgrounds Festival of Lights announces 2024 dates, celebrates anniversary

Erie County Fairgrounds Press Release & Photos

The Fairgrounds Festival of Lights returns this holiday season with dazzling light displays and festive fun for all ages! Entering its 20th year, the Festival of Lights is Western New York’s largest light show, featuring over 70 light displays. The ticketed event is open select dates throughout November and December, opening Nov. 29.

Ticketing

The Festival of Lights will offer two ticket types again this year at the same prices as 2023.

•Guests can purchase the “full experience ticket” for $33.90 per carload (includes fees) across 17 nights. The full experience includes both the drive-thru displays and walk-up attractions. The dates for the full experience include Nov. 29 and 30, plus Dec. 1, 6-8, and 13-23.

•Or, guests can pick from seven dates in December to purchase a drive-thru only ticket for $22.60 per carload (includes fees). The drive-thru only ticket provides the ultimate flexibility for guests who prefer to stay inside the car for a discounted price. Experience the drive-thru of light displays only on the following nights: Dec. 5, 12, 26-30.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Nov. 15 at www.FairgroundsHoliday.com.

What’s new in 2024?

•$20 anniversary special: In celebration of its 20-year anniversary, the Festival of Lights will host a one-night only discount on Sunday, Dec. 1. Join us for the full experience, including both the drive-thru displays and walk-up attractions on 42nd Street for just $20 (includes fees). 

•Silent night: On Sunday, Dec. 8, the Festival of Lights will offer limited sensory-friendly accommodations. In the walkaround portion of the event (where possible), sounds and flashing lights will be turned down to create a less-stimulating and more inclusive event for those with sensory disabilities. Please note that the lights will not be turned off in the drive-thru portion of the festival. 

•“Christmas Tree Comedy Jamboree”: Visit the whimsical animatronic Christmas Tree Family for a comedy show brimming with jolly jokes and festive fun. From silly one-liners to pun-tastic punchlines, each character has a unique personality that’ll have guests rolling in the aisles! This kid-friendly comedy show will run at the top of the hour and the half hour from 5:30-9:30 p.m. in Expo Hall. Available on full experience dates only. 

•“Santa Speed Lane”: So excited you just can’t wait? Guests can now purchase a “Santa Speed Lane Pass” to skip the line to see Santa! Passes will be available online for $20 (includes fees) starting at 10 a.m. Nov. 15. One pass per group. Limited supply per night. Available on full experience dates only. 

(Submitted photo)

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Returning attractions

Festivalgoer favorites return in 2024 including the “North Pole Experience,” featuring visits with Santa and a train display from Western New York Garden & Railway Society; the Whoville Express Train Ride; Santa’s Barnyard featuring farm animals; “Winter Wonderland Workshop,” featuring crafts, cookie decorating and letters to Santa; “Santa’s Magical Midway,” with indoor kiddie rides, an illuminated pixel show and “Frosty’s Dance Party.” Available on full experience dates only. Additional costs associated with some of these attractions. 

Holiday shopping

Get your holiday shopping done while visiting the festival! Guests can shop at 15-plus local retail vendors located outside on 42nd Street and inside Expo Hall. Products range from holiday greenery and gourmet goods to beauty products and apparel – including Erie County Fair merchandise. For a full listing of vendors, visit www.FairgroundsHoliday.com. Available on full experience dates only. 

Food & drink

Get your fair food fix at the Fairgrounds Festival of Lights! Festivalgoers will find casual finger foods with creative holiday twists, as well as fair favorites like fried dough and kettle corn. Unwind at “Frosted” Grapes & Hops, an outdoor wine and beer experience, offering special deals for the 20th anniversary. Available on full experience dates only. 

About the Fairgrounds Festival of Lights

The Fairgrounds Festival of Lights is located at 5600 McKinley Parkway in Hamburg. It is produced by the Erie County Agricultural Society. For more information regarding the Fairgrounds Festival of Lights, visit www.FairgroundsHoliday.com.