Wander through the enchanted forest, meet Santa and enjoy a new view at Woodland Lights this season

The Woodland Lights of Washington Township is one of the longest-running and most popular annual lights festivals in the Dayton area.

This year, visitors will be able to check out the 27th annual walk-through lights display through Dec. 23, from 6-9 p.m.

>> See Woodland Lights from a new view this season

“Woodland Lights is such a beloved holiday tradition for many families throughout the Miami Valley,” said Kate Trangenstein, the Marketing and Programs Supervisor with Washington Township. “We have stories of people who came when they were kids, got engaged at Woodland Lights and are now bringing their own children to visit with Santa and explore the lights.”

>> Holiday nostalgia beckons at these Miami Valley horse-drawn carriage parades

Credit: Tom Gilliam

Credit: Tom Gilliam

Here are the key things to know about Woodland Lights:

🎡New Ferris Wheel

The Washington Twp. Recreation Center announced on Facebook that it has a new ride this season: a ferris wheel.

Imagine the view of the lights from atop the ferris wheel?

Rides are included with the price of admission.

If you guessed that the new addition is a ferris wheel - you would be correct! The view of the lights from the top is...

Posted by Woodland Lights at Washington Township Recreation Center on Wednesday, November 20, 2019

🌲 The Wooded Trail  

The half-mile wooded path is perhaps the signature feature of Woodland Lights, featuring lighted holiday-themed figures such as reindeer, elves, and snowflakes, but also everyday objects such as airplanes and helicopters.

>> WINTER WONDERLAND: New drive-through Christmas lights coming to woods and historic farm

Credit: Tom Gilliam

Credit: Tom Gilliam

🎠 Amusement Rides  

The various carnival rides at Woodland Lights include a spinning strawberry, a small roller coaster called the Himalaya, and a 26-foot-tall slide that kids slide down in sacks.

“We will have all the traditional favorites such as Santa in his historic log cabin, carriage rides, concessions and live reindeer, plus a couple new amusement rides for kids (and adults!) to experience,” Trangenstein said.

🦌 Live Animals  

There’ll be white-tailed deer with antlers, and a local animal trainer is bringing in silver foxes.

🎅🏻Real Visits with Santa  

Visit Santa inside a historic log cabin with a fire roaring in the hearth, surrounded by lights and greenery.

Credit: HANDOUT

Credit: HANDOUT

🐶🚂Themed Nights  

Pets are usually prohibited during the festival, but Woodland Lights will make an exception on Dec. 10 and 17 for the "Pet Night with SICSA," one of the most popular events during the month-long lights festival. During it, workers from SICSA will be there to interact with your canine pals.

There will also be a Train Night on Dec. 7, where kids and adults can ride a train with an actual conductor throughout the park.

>> OPENING TODAY: The Contemporary Dayton has the holiday season wrapped up with handcrafted gifts

🕗 Best Time To Go 

“It depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for,” Trangenstein said. “If you want a less crowded experience, it’s best to come on weeknights. But if you like crowds, come on the weekends, and of course we get busier the closer we get to Christmas.”

✨ Final Tips 

“Order your tickets online, which will get you through the fast-track line,” Trangenstein said. “Dress warm, and once you get here, take your time.”

Credit: Tom Gilliam

Credit: Tom Gilliam

WANT TO GO?

What: Woodland Lights

When: Through Dec. 23, 6-9 p.m.

Where: Countryside Park, 895 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Washington Twp.

Cost: $9, free for children 2 and younger

More info: 937-433-0130 | FacebookWebsite

About the Authors