Grand Prairie Christmas Tradition Preparing For More Visitors Amid Pandemic

A local Christmas tradition is preparing for even more guests in the midst of the global pandemic.

Many holiday events are being canceled or altered this year, causing some events, like the Prairie Lights drive-thru lights show in Grand Prairie to prepare for even more visitors.

During a typical year, the event usually welcomes around 165,000 guests, according to CBS DFW.

"Because of the lack of stuff, and everybody just ready to get out and do something normal, Prairie Lights is probably going to have a crazy, busy year. So we're gearing up to make sure it is as smooth as we can make it. Still going to be long lines, still going to be a wait, but we're trying to make it as smooth as possible," said Duane Strawn, Grand Prairie's Director of Parks, Arts and Recreation.

Around 5 million holiday lights are being hung to turn Lynn Creek Park into a winter wonderland.

Strawn said, "It's a lot of man hours, but it's all worth it when you see the kids and the families come out and experience what Prairie Lights is all about. We pride ourselves: COVID or no COVID this is a tradition."

There will be some changes to the event in light of the pandemic, however.

There will be no out-of-vehicle experiences, no holiday village this year, and Santa will be virtual.

The event runs Thanksgiving night through New Year's Eve from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. nightly.

Photo: Getty Images

Source: CBS DFW