By 1808Delaware
It started as a simple idea nearly three decades ago: brighten Ohio’s dark winter nights with something hopeful. Now entering its 26th year, Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights at Alum Creek State Park in Delaware has turned into a beloved ritual for thousands of families. What keeps people coming back isn’t just nostalgia. Every year, the Bando family adds new displays so returning visitors still get that sense of discovery.
The entire route winds through the wooded campgrounds at Alum Creek. Drivers move slowly along three miles of sparkling tunnels, oversized characters, and glowing holiday scenes. The effect feels part winter amusement park, part quiet nature drive.
The owners like to say that the lights are only half the point. The other half is what the event gives back.
Giving Back, One Carload at a Time
While the lights put everyone in the holiday mood, Mrs. Claus handles the real magic. Near the end of the route, she collects unwrapped toys, warm clothing, and even letters to Santa. The donations go directly to local organizations serving families who could use a lift during the holidays.
It’s a simple moment. A car window rolls down. A kid hands over a winter coat or a toy they picked out themselves. Santa’s mailbox swallows another hopeful letter.
That’s the stuff people remember.
When and Where to Go
Season dates for 2025–2026
November 21 through January 4, 2026
Location
Alum Creek State Park Campgrounds
3311 South Old State Road
Delaware, Ohio
Hours
Sunday through Thursday: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Friday and Saturday: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
The show runs in rain, snow, or wind. Only severe weather shuts things down, and if that happens, updates are posted on their social feeds.
Something New Every Year
The route is designed for viewing from your vehicle. Most people tune their radios to the holiday soundtrack broadcast on a local station as they drive through. The combination of lights, quiet forest roads, and music creates something that feels strangely peaceful — even if the back seat is full of kids hopped up on cocoa.
For anyone who likes being part of the action, there’s a rare chance to walk the display before the season opens.
“Run the Lights” takes place early on December 13, 2025. Participants get to jog or stroll through the display before the gates open to cars. Distances of 3 or 6 miles are offered, along with event swag.
Tickets and What to Expect
Passes are available at the gate. Pricing varies each year, but it usually runs about $30 per vehicle on weekend nights. Season passes are also offered for those who want to go more than once.
Some nights benefit local charities, and part of the ticket revenue is directed toward organizations like Recreation Unlimited and A Kid Again, both of which support families dealing with medical challenges.
Tips from repeat visitors:
• Bring snacks and hot chocolate
• Wear layers if you’re rolling windows down
• Don’t rush — the show is meant to be savored
If weather or traffic patterns change, Facebook and Instagram are the fastest sources for updates.
Why People Keep Coming Back
Yes, it’s a light show. But it’s also one of those rare winter experiences that gets entire families into one car and focused on the same thing. Phones get put down. The radio plays carols. People point and yell out the window when they spot a favorite scene.
It’s hard to explain how much that matters until you’ve been through it.
But maybe that’s the real draw here: for 20 minutes or so, everyone slows down and just enjoys being together.
