Owner expands lights show for guests

For many of the hundreds of people in and around Columbia County that attend the Lights of the South hayride and light show, the event has become a holiday must.

//

Lights of the South is put on by Benjamin Bell, the owner of the 106-acre site off Louisville Road in Grovetown. This is the fourth season that Bell has put together the Christmas light show and hayride.

"We have added a castle with over 200,000 lights. I wanted to end on something pretty magnificent," Bell said.

Bell has expanded not only the light show, but also in the conveniences and safety precautions.

This year the trails have been expanded to give more room for the tractors and pedestrians. Also, there are more rest rooms and parking spaces, Bell said.

In addition to the lights of the attraction, children can get their pictures taken with Santa, have some hot chocolate at Mrs. Claus' Kitchen and roast marshmallows over an open fire.

Children also can enjoy a new play area this year, with a two-story dollhouse, a treehouse and a sitting area for parents.

From 6-10 p.m. every night, adults get in for $7.50, children 6 to 17 for $3, and children under 5 may attend for free.

Lights of the South is open through Dec. 30, with Santa available through Christmas Eve.