Two million lights will be displayed this year at CALM holiday lights. This is the sixth year that the California Living Museum has held the event, and the nonprofit organization displays its lights until Dec. 30. They also offer $2 off admission Monday-Thursday and free train and carousel rides.
But just what makes these lights so special? Danielle Basser has been taking her niece and nephew for three years now, and sees it as a bonding experience for them. “It’s something that we look forward to every Christmas season. Unfortunately, I don’t get to see my sister’s kids as much as I would like to. So, I hope that this whole experience, freezing our butts off, drinking hot cocoa and enjoying the light displays is something that they will look back on and remember about their aunt.”
Basser said she was impressed with how many lights shows are actually displayed, and how beautiful they are. Her personal favorite display is the lights that dance to music. “It must have taken a lot of time for someone to program the lights to fit perfectly with the song. And it’s so cool to watch.”
New to the CALM light display this year are pirates fighting on a pond and the symphony of lights that perform to music.
Newlyweds Jordan and Denise Hall came to the CALM lights to get away from the every day stresses that life brings and to relax and enjoy each other’s company. “It’s cool because this is such a hectic and stressful season. Just walking around enjoying the lights takes your mind off of everything that is going on. It gives you a chance to really appreciate everyone, and everything that you have in your life.” Jordan said.
“If you haven’t been yet, you really need to go,” Denise added.
They also think that the lights are not just for people who celebrate Christmas, but for anyone looking for a relaxing evening.
“The lights here really bring the holiday season together. No matter what holiday you celebrate you can appreciate everything that is going on. There is no focus on just one holiday. Whether you’re young, old, black, white, purple or green this is one event that is truly for everyone,” Jordan said.