By Paula Weinman | Echo
This month, Marion's annual Walkway of Lights reopened in Matter Park, celebrating the season with a brilliant display of community Christmas cheer.
Featuring impressive displays of Christmas lights and decorations, the Walkway of Lights spans nearly four miles along Marion's scenic Riverwalk-all the way through Matter Park to downtown Marion. Visitors are free to drive their cars along the Walkway of Lights, although they are encouraged to walk the route with their friends and families.
For certain events, visitors will also be able to take a hayride around the displays. A gift shop is located near the end of the trail, where people can purchase hot chocolate and holiday gifts. The Walkway of Lights is open every day from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. from now until the end of December. Visitors can purchase a season pass for $5 per car.
Marion park director Belinda Hussong believes the Walkway is impressive even from outside the park. "After you go under the bridge, you just see this big burst of lights. It's just a fantastic festival for our community."
Although nearly 120 displays are featured in the Walkway of Lights, Hussong says one of the most entertaining exhibits is the luminous tribute to "The Twelve Days of Christmas," in which visitors can see each of the famous presents brought to life. According to Hussong, it's common to find families crowded in front of this exhibit, trying to remember the lyrics to the infamously lengthy tune.
"They usually do all right at the beginning (of the song)," Hussong said. "At the very end it gets difficult. One year, we actually provided people with copies of the lyrics."
This year, the Walkway seeks to provide even more opportunities for families to make the most of their time in Matter Park. An upcoming event will feature gingerbread decoration, hot chocolate, hayrides and storytelling time. At only $5 a child, Hussong hopes to make this a fun, affordable way for families to celebrate the season. In addition, families are welcome to have breakfast with Santa in the garden house. Free donuts and milk will be provided for those who attend.
The Walkway committee will also be hosting the annual Jingle Bell Jog, which will take runners or walkers around the entirety of the Walkway.
"We're trying to encourage families to get out of their cars and really enjoy the displays, and maybe even walk around the gardens," Hussong said.
Those interested in running or walking the route can register for $5. Participants will be given jingle bells and a coupon for free hot chocolate for the end of their walk.
Even those who drive through the exhibits will have the chance to experience a big part of Marion's Christmas history, Hussong said.
"It's a huge community event for Marion," she said. "It's been running for over 20 years, and it's something Marion is very proud of."
