Night of Lights OC brightens skies, holiday outlook for Orange County fairgrounds crowd

The night sky above the Orange County fairgrounds recently became illuminated by the glow of more than 1 million holiday lights as Night of Lights OC — a 1-mile drive-through holiday light display — made its debut Thursday in Costa Mesa.

From the creators of the city’s popular Winter Fest OC, the immersive experience allowed visitors young and old to partake in some holiday fun in the comfort and safety of their vehicles during a 30-minute route that featured the world’s largest ornament and a 50-foot Christmas tree.

Despite the enormity of the 1-million light spectacle, portions of which were enhanced by 3-D glasses, signs of pandemic precautions dotted the landscape during the show’s debut. Observing social distancing rules, a cast of characters wore facial coverings — even Santa Claus himself masked up for the occasion.

Cars make the 1-mile drive through a winter wonderland at the Orange County fairgrounds.

(Raul Roa / Staff Photographer)

At the end of the route, staff members waited with cameras to take custom-made portraits of vehicles and their passengers as a keepsake of what is sure to be an unforgettable holiday season.

The installation will be open to visitors through Jan. 10. Monday through Wednesday, prices per vehicle begin at $49.99 “for selected time slots.” Thursday viewings start at $59.99 and Friday through Sunday start at $69.99.

For more information, visit nightoflightsoc.com.

Santa Claus waves at cars during the Night of Lights OC event at the Orange County fairgrounds.

(Raul Roa / Staff Photographer)

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