There’s Christmas songs on the radio — and, thousands of lights dancing to the tunes.
That’s just part of the stunning, festive display at The Wonderland of Lights and America’s Christmas Village in Auburndale.
Thousands of choreographed lights and holiday displays can be viewed from the comfort of an air-conditioned car.
It’s a night of family fun, and an incredible deal for families, too.
So load up the SUV, tune in the radio and get away from that silent night — for some holiday fun that’s totally worth the trip.
North Pole by North Pole West
The International Market World Flea and Farmers Market of Auburndale is about an hour or so away, from Land O’ Lakes, depending on the traffic.
Founded in 1981, it is now a 30-acre operation that hosts markets and events throughout the year.
But until Dec. 25, in the evenings, the place will become The Wonderland of Lights and America’s Christmas Village.
Tammy Peters, founder and owner of North Pole Productions, is behind this fun land.
She started this production company in 2001, to develop and produce unique and customized events for fairgrounds, museums and parks.
The former longtime executive at United Way began a lighting business in 1997, but once she retired, she wanted to do something that involved her love of Christmas.
“The past 20 years at North Pole Productions have been dedicated to putting on amazing light shows as a wonderful way to entertain families,” Peters said. “It’s just good, wholesome entertainment during the holiday season.”
The light show display in Auburndale is in its seventh year, while North Pole Productions does several professional shows across the country, including 12 around Bronson, Missouri.
As a family friendly event, Peters notes that coming to see the light show is a deal even Scrooge wouldn’t pass up.
“It’s a lot of young families that come out,” Peters said. “And there’s grandparents bringing grandchildren to it, to give mom and dad the night off.
“It really warms my heart to see families out here, and it’s $25 for up to eight people. Where else are you going to entertain eight people for $3 a head?!”
Take it slow and wonder
The mile-long lighted route begins by tuning the radio to 103.1 FM, where passengers will be greeted with Christmas songs. All along the path there are displays with different themes.
There are “tunnels” that dance to the music, which will range from your Christmas classics, those same songs but more modern, and even ‘Frozen’ tunes for you Disney fans out there.
Several displays have a Florida or beach theme, such as Santa’s Beach Party or an impressive shark fin that moves and ends with “Bruce” appearing out of the water.
The 12 Days of Christmas is on a straightaway and there are fun touches on impressive displays, making it fun to take it nice and slow along the route.
To the village
At the end of the route will be America’s Christmas Village. It, too, does not disappoint.
With a distinct carnival vibe to it, it is decked out for Christmas and features rides, games, food, entertainment and more.
There’s plenty of bounce houses inside the circus tent, which also includes a huge Bumble from “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer,” the one-of-a-kind, 30-foot Star-Spangled Christmas Tree and, of course, the beloved holly and jolly man that children enjoy seeing this time of year.
In the end, a trip to this wonderland is a festive gift families can give themselves to brighten up their holidays, without breaking the bank.
The Wonderland of Lights & America’s Christmas Village
Where: International Market World Flea and Farmers Market, 1052 U.S. 92, Auburndale
When: Daily through Dec. 25, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cost: $25 for general admission, with a car of up to eight people
Details: A festive holiday experience through a spectacular parade of thousands of lights. From tunnel displays to towering structures and whimsical designs, celebrate the spirit of the season with a few surprises sprinkled in, including a one-of-a-kind, 30-foot Star-Spangled Christmas Tree. Food, games, entertainment and rides await visitors at the end of the lighted drive-through.
Info and tickets: Visit TheWonderlandOfLights.com.
Published December 07, 2022
