Eaton’s Whispering Christmas lights display has become a decades-old tradition

For over three decades, Fort St. Clair’s Whispering Christmas lights display has been a beloved holiday tradition in Eaton.

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When it first opened in 1987, it only consisted of approximately 800 lights. Now, more than three decades later, the Whispering Christmas lights display in Eaton contains an impressive two million lights and dozens of unique fixtures.

Get your vehicle ready! Drive thru (no cabins) begins THIS FRIDAY! Here's what you need/want to know! Friday, November...

Posted by Fort St. Clair's Whispering Christmas on Sunday, November 19, 2017

The holiday lights display is located at 135 Camden Rd. at Fort St. Clair State Park in Eaton.

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Whispering Christmas is open to visitors every night in December from 6-10 p.m. Cabins are open every night from 6-10 p.m. through Dec. 24. Visitors will also have a chance to visit with Santa in the Main Cabin every night through Dec. 23, from 6-9 p.m.

“While in the main cabin, guests are invited to warm up by the fireplace and enjoy hot cocoa and cookies free of charge as well,” said Amber and Lewis Willeford, co-chairs of The Whispering Christmas Committee.

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Whispering Christmas is a drive-through lights display. Visitors are asked to stay on the dedicated paths for the safety of all involved.

This year, there are few impressive additions to the display.

“[T]hanks to the donations received last year, we have two new displays: Peanuts and Grinch. The Peanuts display measures 12 feet tall by 32 feet wide and the Grinch is 14 feet tall.”

Though the drive-through is free, a $5 donation is encouraged for admittance.

Each year, local families and businesses decorate their own portion of the drive-through lights display  to participate in the “Battle of the Areas.” This year, there are 12 participants. Visitors can vote for their favorite sections on the Whispering Christmas’ Facebook page. The winner will receive a traveling trophy and bragging rights for a year.

WANT TO GO?

What: Fort St. Clair's Whispering Christmas

When: Open from 6-10 p.m. every night until Dec. 31. Cabins are open 6-10 p.m. every night until Dec. 24. Santa will be in the Main Cabin every night through Dec. 23, from 6-9 p.m.

Where: Fort St. Clair State Park, 135 Camden Rd., Eaton

Cost: $5 per car

More info: Facebook

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