"The (Christmas Light) Trail is the main event, and that's where most of the lights are," said John Styer, organizer of Christmas in the Park, a Terre Hill Days celebration. "Admission is free, and parking is free," added Styer. "For the Christmas Light Trail there is a nominal fee." Styer noted that members of the Terre Hill Days committee are "really grateful for all the businesses that stepped up to offset our costs." "(Our sponsors) keep it an affordable family event for the community," said Styer.

This year's Christmas in the Park event will run two consecutive weekends. The festivities, which will include food, live music performances, and live ice carving, will be held from 5 to 8:30 p.m. each night. The event will be held on Fridays, Dec. 1 and 8; Saturdays, Dec. 2 and 9; and Sundays, Dec. 3 and 10, in the Terre Hill Park, 210 Lancaster Ave., Terre Hill.

Styer pointed out that decorating the the Christmas Light Trail began in October.This year's display will feature 50,000 lights - double the number that decorated last year's trail. This year's trail will offer 25 new handmade light displays and two new special scenes. "One is an ice castle theme, and the other is Christmas in outer space," said Styer, who added that an interactive walk-through Nativity display will return. There is no charge for children age 3 and under to participate. Tickets may be purchased at the event with cash or a credit card or now online at http://www.terrehilldays.com on the "Christmas in the Park" page.

"We will have entertainment in two locations all the time," said Styer, who said that live musical groups will encompass a variety of genres. Brass ensembles will include the New Holland Brass Band and the Holiday Horns. Ian Carroll will play guitar, and Nick DiSanto will bring his one-man-band talents to the venue. Elvis impersonator Jeff Krick Jr. will perform as will Perfect Harmony and the Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble. Jazz fans may enjoy hearing the Cats Pajamas and Stephanie Grace will offer country sounds to visitors. In addition, groups of carolers, including carolers from Cavod, will sing each night.

The Terre Hill Days food pavilion will be open for the event, but a number of other vendors will be available, including Castanedas Mexican, Henhouse Grilling, and vendors offering handmade soft pretzels and french fries. "We have a fun specialty hot chocolate stand with seasonal flavors," said Styer.

Children's crafts and activities will be held in the park this year, and Santa will be available for visits.

Styer noted that off-site parking with a shuttle service will be provided from 400 Reading Road, East Earl. Handicapped-accessible parking will be available at the Terre Hill Community Center, and visitors may drop off and pick up their parties at the park.

More information about the event may be found at the aforementioned website.