The 29th season of Woodland Lights at Countryside Park features a fantasy land of holiday lights and displays along the half-mile paved path. The month-long festival has more lights, more vignettes, and the same winter whimsy that enchants thousands of visitors each year. Open Friday – Sunday: November 19 through December 19 from 6-9pm and then nightly December 20 through December 30, except for
December 24 & 25 when they will be closed. Tickets run $9 and can be purchased in advance online or on the night of! Children 2 and under are free.
For the first year ever, visitors can stroll through the ten acres of sparkling light and whimsical displays or take a ride on the Rieck Express train along a new path! Climb aboard this colorful four car train that seats up to sixteen and take a scenic ride that winds past the Pollinator Garden and the vernal pond, creating a treasured new memory for long-time visitors. The train was partially sponsored through a generous donation from Rieck Services last year and 2021 will mark its maiden run at Woodland Lights as it’s sure to delight young and old alike. Please note that the trains have replaced the amusement rides.
As always, Santa will be tucked cozily by the fireplace in our historic log cabin, waiting for children to share their wish lists with him. Have your camera ready to take a photo with Santa or any of the costumed characters and animated vignettes you will encounter along the path. Our traditional horse drawn carriage rides will run every night except December 3 & 4.
A variety of amusements and concessions round out the month long celebration including a community favorite:
Pet Night: December 3 & 21- Pets are people too on select night when they are invited to walk the holiday path with their loving owners. Please be sure they are leashed, people-friendly and that owners pick up any waste left behind.
Character Night: December 4 – Meet some of your favorite characters along the path! From Mickey to Minnie to Olaf – and more!
The train, lights and displays of Woodland Lights are powered by the generosity of event sponsors, led by the Sam’s Club of Washington Township, Beavercreek and North Dayton. Sam’s Club has been the festival’s Major Sponsor for ten consecutive seasons, including last year’s modified event. “The community spirit of local businesses shines bright at each Woodland Lights,” says Mark Metzger, Recreation Director. “But we are especially grateful for last year’s sponsors that did not withdraw their support when the traditional festival was canceled by the pandemic. We expect record attendance when Woodland Lights return to Countryside Park this year, which will be a fitting tribute to those who make this community celebration possible.” All sponsors for this year’s event are recognized on our website, on social media and throughout the festival.
Woodland Lights is an outdoor event that rarely closes, even when the weather is cold and snowy. However, rain and ice can force the holiday event to shut down for all or part of an evening. The decision to close rides or the event is taken very seriously and is made at or before 2 pm on a daily basis. To get the latest information on weather-related closings, visit the Woodland Lights Facebook page.
Countryside Park
895 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd
Washington Township, OH 45459
937-433-0130
Friday – Sunday: November 19 through December 19
Nightly: December 20 through December 30
Closed December 24 & 25
Hours of Operation:
6-9 pm
Gate closes at 8:30 pm
