About the Wayne County Lightfest
The Wayne County Lightfest is a drive-thru lighting event in Westland, Michigan, USA. This event features an illuminated five-mile stretch of Hines Park, shining with almost 50 animated displays and more than 100,000 colorful lights. Every turn of the festival route brings a new burst of wonder, pulling visitors deeper into the holiday spirit.
Families and friends look forward to this event every season. It has become a simple tradition to them. The festival offers the best opportunity for attendees to celebrate the holidays and create new memories with loved ones.
With new displays added and old favorites returning, there’s always something fresh to look forward to, making the Wayne County Lightfest a must-visit destination.
Featured Lighting Displays:
- Light Sculptures – Huge glowing figures stand tall along the route, bringing holiday characters to life. Reindeer leap, snowmen smile, and other familiar faces shine bright under the winter sky.
- Christmas Lights Displays – Trees sparkle with colorful strands, while arches and holiday shapes burst with vibrant lights. The mix of colors creates a cheerful rhythm that keeps your eyes moving from one display to the next.
- Tunnel of Lights – Cars glide through a long tunnel filled with swirling lights that shift and dance around you. The changing patterns create a playful, almost hypnotic experience that leaves a lasting impression.
When is the Wayne County Lightfest
The holiday festival of lights will take place from November 20, 2025 until December 24, 2025. That’s plenty of time to plan a visit and enjoy the colorful displays. Early or late in the season, the magic stays the same.
Some like to start their holiday season with a trip through the lights in November. Others prefer waiting until December, making it part of their Christmas countdown. No matter when you go, the glowing scenes are ready to welcome you with the same bright holiday cheer.
Where It’s Located and How to Get There
Hines Park, where the magic of the Wayne County Lightfest happens, is located at 7651 N Merriman Rd, Westland, Michigan. The park stretches out with plenty of open space, making it perfect for the long drive-thru display.
If you’re flying in, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is the closest, sitting about 11 miles away. After landing, it’s a short 25-minute ride before you’re at the start of the glowing holiday trail.
Getting from the airport to Hines Park:
- Renting a car at DTW is simple and gives you the freedom to head straight to the festival. You can take your time, stop for snacks, and arrive whenever you’re ready.
- Ride-share apps are a popular option too. Just request a car, and you’ll be on your way in no time.
Traveling by train to reach the festival location:
- Take Amtrak into Detroit’s main station, then grab a ride-share or local bus for the final stretch to Westland. It’s a smooth transfer that gets you close to the lights quickly.
- If you’re coming from farther out, the Wolverine line runs from Chicago through Detroit. After arriving, you’re just one short drive away from the glowing holiday route.
You can also check out these other great lighting events across the United States:
Festival Hours
Wayne County Lightfest runs from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM each night, giving guests four hours of captivating holiday lights displays. These long hours offer the perfect chance to enjoy everything the festival has to offer, allowing everyone to experience a holiday celebration like no other.
If you wish to make the most of the Wayne County Lightfest, taking notes of these festival hours is a must.
How Much Does It Cost to Experience the Wayne County Lightfest?
For anyone planning a trip to the Wayne County Lightfest, ticket prices are affordable. A regular car only needs $5.00 in cash at the entrance. You pull up, pay, and you’re on your way through the glowing displays.
Larger vehicles have their own rates. Commercial vans, RVs, and limos are $20.00, while mini-buses with up to 20 passengers pay $25.00. Full-size buses carrying 40 or more people are charged $50.00, making it easy for big groups to plan ahead and enjoy the drive together.
For more details, you can visit the festival’s official website.
Weather and What to Wear
Westland starts to cool down in November, with daytime highs reaching around 9°C and dropping to about 1°C at night. By December, the chill deepens, with highs near 3°C and lows dipping to –4°C. The air feels crisp, and some nights bring that sharp winter bite, making it perfect for a holiday drive under the lights.
To stay comfortable during your visit, here’s what you’ll want to bring:
- Warm coat or jacket – A thick layer keeps the cold air out, so you can enjoy the lights comfortably from start to finish.
- Hat and gloves – These small essentials make a big difference when your head and hands stay warm.
- Scarf – A scarf wraps nicely around your neck and adds an extra layer of comfort.
- Thermal socks – Keeping your feet warm helps your whole body feel cozier during chilly drives.
- Blanket – A soft blanket adds a nice touch, especially for passengers who want to stay extra warm while you roll through the displays.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking for a place to stay while visiting the Wayne County Lightfest, here are a few nearby options:
- Baymont by Wyndham Canton – This 2-star hotel offers a simple, comfortable stay with free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool for a quick dip. Every morning starts with free breakfast, and parking is always easy with plenty of free spots. After a long drive through the lights, the hot tub gives you a perfect way to relax.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Detroit-Canton – This eco-certified 3-star hotel offers clean, modern rooms with free Wi-Fi and an indoor pool that’s ready no matter the weather. Free breakfast makes mornings smooth, and the large free parking lot means you never have to worry about where to leave your car. It’s a nice balance of comfort and convenience for anyone visiting the festival.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Dearborn, MI – This 3-star hotel combines free Wi-Fi with multiple pools for a bit of fun between outings. Mornings start off easy with free breakfast, and free parking keeps things simple. After a full night of holiday lights, the hot tub is a cozy way to end your evening.
Where to Eat
For a tasty meal before or after your drive through the Wayne County Lightfest, here are some nice options nearby:
- Crab Kitchen Cajun Seafood – This seafood spot brings plenty of flavor, offering Crab Rangoon, a variety of sandwiches, and creamy cheesecake to finish off your meal. The menu mixes seafood favorites with comforting bites, making it a solid pick if you want something hearty. You’ll find it on N Wayne Rd, just a short drive from the festival.
- Westland Family Dining – This diner serves up homestyle American comfort food along with a few international dishes. French fries, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, and lasagna are just a few of the crowd-pleasers on the menu. The relaxed setting makes it an easy place to settle in for a casual meal with friends or family.
- LongHorn Steakhouse – Sitting inside Westland Shopping Center, this casual steakhouse focuses on grilled beef and American favorites. From juicy steaks to spicy chicken bites, the menu is packed with rich, satisfying flavors. It’s a go-to spot if you’re in the mood for a big, filling dinner after the lights.
More Places to Explore in the Area
Aside from the Wayne County Lightfest, here are other attractions you can check out at Westland:
- Trampoline & Game Park Canton / Westland – Tucked inside Central City Plaza Shopping Center, this amusement center offers a mix of arcade games and trampolines. You can jump, play, and even grab a meal at the on-site restaurant, making it easy to spend a few hours here. It’s a fun stop for kids and adults who want to add a little extra action to their visit.
- Sportway of Westland – This amusement park keeps things lively with go-karts, mini-golf, and batting cages all in one spot. There’s also food available, so you don’t have to leave when hunger kicks in. It’s a good place to burn off some energy and enjoy a bit of friendly competition.
- Roberson’s Fun Center – This escape room center adds a bit of mystery to your visit, offering rooms filled with puzzles to solve. You and your group work together, following clues and racing the clock to break out. It’s a fun, hands-on way to spend time with friends or family.
A Glowing Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Wayne County Lightfest
If you wish to experience an unforgettable holiday season, the Wayne County Lightfest is the place to be. The five-mile drive of colorful lights and animated displays creates a cozy holiday vibe that’s hard to beat. This event would be a great addition to your holiday celebration.
The area around the festival also offers plenty to enjoy. From fun activities to great restaurants to check out, you’ll find lots of ways to fill your day before or after the lightfest. The combination of the festival and nearby attractions makes the trip even more worthwhile.
Now is a perfect time to start planning. Grab your calendar, pick a date, and get ready for a holiday tradition you’ll want to experience again.
FAQ
1. Is parking available at Wayne County Lightfest?
Since it’s a drive-thru event, you stay in your vehicle for the entire experience. There’s no separate parking area needed during the drive.
2. Can I bring my pet?
Pets can come along but must remain inside your vehicle throughout the drive. Exiting your car at any point is not allowed.
3. Is smoking allowed during the drive-thru?
Smoking inside your car is not prohibited, but it’s strongly discouraged out of courtesy to others in line.
4. Can I bring food and drinks during the event?
You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy in the car.
5. Can I take photos or videos inside the car?
Yes, photos and videos are allowed from inside your vehicle. Just stay seated and avoid hanging out of windows while taking pictures.
6. Is Lightfest family-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s perfect for all ages. Families can stay warm and comfortable in their car while enjoying the holiday displays.
7. Does Lightfest run rain or shine?
Yes, the event operates in most weather conditions. Only extreme situations may cause temporary closures.
8. What happens if there’s a long wait?
Traffic can get heavy during peak times. You can tune in to AM 1640 for live updates on wait times as you approach the entrance.
Sources: https://www.waynecountymi.gov/Parks-Recreation/Special-Events-and-Programs/Wayne-County-Lightfest
https://littleguidedetroit.com/wayne-county-lightfest-illuminates-hines-drive/
