Vernon Again Offering Drive-Through Holiday Light Display

VERNON, CT — The town of Vernon will again offer a free holiday light display at Henry Park with an early soft opening slated for 2025.

The drive-through format will, as in the past, begin at the South Street entrance to the park and continue to the famed snowflake at the Fox Hill Tower, town officials said.

Though the formal holiday ceremony isn't until Dec. 5, the premise of an early start for the light tour, town officials said, is to have the Henry Park display ready for a soft opening during Thanksgiving weekend so it's available for local families and those visiting town for Turkey Day.

Parks and Recreation crews began assembling the display this week.

For the actual Winterfest celebration, the lights will be off until the mayor and Santa can "officially" kick off the season. Then, they will go back on.

On Dec. 5, the Vernon Winterfest celebration festivities are scheduled to begin at 5:45 p.m. at Central Park in front of Vernon Town Hall.

Winterfest will be highlighted by several traditions — the fire truck parade, the tree lighting, caroling and holiday music by the Rockville High School Choir and the RHS Ram Band, and the snowflake lighting atop the Fox Hill Tower.

Winterfest also signifies the opening of the Santa House in front of town hall, at which children can visit and get pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, free of charge.