If you’re on Google searching for the best “drive through Christmas lights near me,” look no further! Experience West Virginia’s premier drive through Christmas lights display at the St. Albans Festival of Lights.
The St. Albans Festival of Lights returns for its 36th year, with dazzling drive through Christmas lights open nightly from 6 PM – 9 PM, November 29 through December 23, with a final night on December 26. Please note that the event will be closed on December 24 and 25.
Enjoy Making Memories This Holiday Season
This festive tradition is a seasonal highlight in West Virginia, offering an unforgettable experience for all ages. From young children to families and friends, the Festival of Lights is an opportunity to create cherished memories and start or continue holiday traditions.
A Christmas Light Winter Wonderland at St. Albans City Park
Each year, St. Albans City Park transforms into a Winter Wonderland filled with hundreds of Christmas lights and hand-crafted displays of favorite holiday characters. This festive showcase, brought to life by the St. Albans Parks & Recreation team, is brimming with holiday cheer and artistry. Expect to see popular holiday favorites alongside exciting new additions, including beloved character Bluey, making this year’s experience even more memorable.
Celebrating 35 Years of Holiday Tradition
Now in its 36th year, the St. Albans Festival of Lights is considered one of the best drive through Christmas lights displays in the region, drawing visitors from around West Virginia and neighboring states. This cherished West Virginia holiday tradition brings together vibrant holiday themes and classic characters from movies, television, and cartoons, all to create a magical experience.
See Magical Christmas Lights from Your Car
One of the longest-running drive through Christmas lights displays in the tri-state area, the St. Albans Festival of Lights is a must-see for anyone in the Charleston, Huntington, and surrounding regions. Cruise through City Park from the comfort of your car while listening to festive music from the local radio station, WWSA 96.9. This special broadcast accompanies the drive through Christmas lights, adding an extra touch of magic to the experience.
Enjoy Free Holiday Fun For the Entire Family
The Festival of Lights is free for everyone, welcoming donations of either monetary gifts or canned food items. All donations go toward maintaining this beautiful holiday tradition and supporting local food banks. The drive through Christmas lights at St. Albans City Park is a fantastic way to spark holiday cheer for families of all ages.
Santa House Returns to Roadside Park
In addition to the breathtaking light displays, families can also visit the Santa House at Roadside Park. Open nightly from 6 PM to 9 PM during the festival, the Santa House is a favorite spot for kids to meet Santa, share their holiday wishes, and take photos. This special addition creates even more magic and joy as families enjoy an interactive holiday experience.
More Holiday Events in St. Albans, WV
Friday, December 6th
- St. Albans Christmas Market – Main Street – 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
- St. Albans Christmas Tree Lighting – Main Street – 6:00 pm
Saturday, December 7th
- St. Albans Christmas Parade – Downtown SA – 3:00 pm
- Cunningham Luminaries – Cunningham Memorial – 4:30 pm
- St. Albans Lighted Boat Parade – Roadside Park – 7:00 pm
Frequently Asked Questions about the Drive Through Christmas Lights at St. Albans City Park
How long does it take to drive through the St. Albans Festival of Lights?
The drive through the lights typically takes about 25-30 minutes, though it may be longer on busier nights.
Where is the Festival of Lights Located?
Located at 931 Observatory Drive in St. Albans, WV 25177.
Driving Directions from Charleston, WV
- From I-64 West, take Exit 54 – MacCorkle Ave. / Rt. 60
- Turn Left onto MacCorkle Ave towards St. Albans
- Turn Left onto Walnut Street
- Follow Walnut Street to Kanawha Terrace
- Turn Right onto Kanawha Terrace to Vine Street.
- Follow Festival of Lights signs towards the St. Albans City Park entrance.
Driving Directions from Huntington, WV
- From I-64 East, take Exit 44 – St. Albans.
- Turn Right onto Rt.817, travel to MacCorkle Ave.
- Turn Left on MacCorkle, travel to Walnut Street.
- Follow Walnut Street to Kanawha Terrace.
- Turn Right onto Kanawha Terrace to Vine Street.
- Follow Festival of Lights signs towards the St. Albans City Park entrance.
How long does the Festival of Lights last?
The Festival runs from November 29 – December 23, with one final night on December 26, open nightly from 6 PM to 9 PM, and closed on December 24 and 25.
Who do I contact for more information about the Festival of Lights?
St. Albans City Park in the City of St. Albans offers a wide array of family-friendly activities and events for the community to enjoy, especially during the holiday season! For more information about this year’s Festival of Lights or any other recreational opportunities in St. Albans, contact the St. Albans Parks & Recreation Department at 304-722-4625 or visit their website www.saparkswv.com.
