The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting a spectacular Christmas lights display? In Akron, Ohio, there's one attraction that stands out from the rest: the Stan Hywet Christmas lights display. For over 50 years, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens has been transforming its beautiful estate into a winter wonderland, attracting visitors from all over the country.
As one of the largest and most popular holiday displays in the Midwest, Stan Hywet's Christmas lights display is a must-see event for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit. With over 1 million lights, this stunning display is a feast for the eyes, featuring a variety of colorful lights, festive decorations, and fun activities for all ages.
A Brief History of Stan Hywet
Before we dive into the details of the Christmas lights display, let's take a brief look at the history of Stan Hywet. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens was built in the early 1900s by the Seiberling family, founders of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The estate was designed by renowned architect Charles S. Schneider and features a stunning Tudor Revival-style manor house, beautiful gardens, and a scenic wooded area.
Today, Stan Hywet is a National Historic Landmark and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ohio. Visitors can explore the manor house, gardens, and grounds, which feature a variety of exhibits, events, and activities throughout the year.
What to Expect at the Stan Hywet Christmas Lights Display
So, what can you expect when visiting the Stan Hywet Christmas lights display? Here are just a few of the many highlights:
- Over 1 million lights: The display features an incredible 1 million lights, which adorn the manor house, gardens, and grounds.
- Festive decorations: The entire estate is decked out in festive decorations, including wreaths, garlands, and Christmas trees.
- Special events and activities: Throughout the season, Stan Hywet hosts a variety of special events and activities, including holiday concerts, Santa visits, and craft workshops.
- Extended hours: The estate is open extended hours during the holiday season, allowing visitors to enjoy the display in the evening.
- Food and drink: Visitors can enjoy a variety of holiday treats and drinks, including hot chocolate, cookies, and popcorn.
Tips for Visiting the Stan Hywet Christmas Lights Display
If you're planning to visit the Stan Hywet Christmas lights display, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead: The display is a popular attraction, so it's a good idea to plan your visit in advance. Consider visiting on a weekday or early in the season to avoid crowds.
- Dress warmly: The display is outdoors, so be sure to dress warmly, especially on chilly winter nights.
- Bring a camera: The display is a photographer's dream, so be sure to bring a camera to capture the magic of the season.
- Make a night of it: Consider making a night of it by enjoying dinner at one of Akron's many excellent restaurants or enjoying some holiday shopping in the area.
Getting to Stan Hywet
Stan Hywet is located in Akron, Ohio, and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are the details:
- Address: 714 North Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303
- Phone: (330) 836-5533
- Hours: The display is open from late November through December 30, with extended hours on weekends and holidays.
- Admission: Admission prices vary depending on the day and time of your visit, so be sure to check the Stan Hywet website for details.
Other Holiday Events in Akron
If you're visiting Akron during the holiday season, there are plenty of other events and attractions to explore. Here are a few ideas:
- Akron Children's Museum: The Akron Children's Museum is a great place to visit with kids, featuring a variety of interactive exhibits and activities.
- Akron Art Museum: The Akron Art Museum is a world-class art museum featuring a diverse collection of American and European art.
- Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad: Take a festive holiday train ride through the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
- Akron ZooLights: Enjoy a festive holiday lights display at the Akron Zoo, featuring over 1 million lights and a variety of animal exhibits.
Conclusion
The Stan Hywet Christmas lights display is a must-see event for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit. With its stunning display of over 1 million lights, festive decorations, and fun activities, it's a great way to spend an evening with family and friends. Whether you're a local or just visiting Akron, be sure to add the Stan Hywet Christmas lights display to your holiday itinerary.
We hope this article has provided you with all the information you need to plan your visit to the Stan Hywet Christmas lights display. Don't forget to share your photos and experiences with us on social media using the hashtag #StanHywetChristmasLights.
FAQ Section
What are the hours of operation for the Stan Hywet Christmas lights display?
+The display is open from late November through December 30, with extended hours on weekends and holidays. Please check the Stan Hywet website for specific hours of operation.
Is the Stan Hywet Christmas lights display wheelchair accessible?
+
Can I bring my dog to the Stan Hywet Christmas lights display?
+No, pets are not allowed on the estate during the holiday season, with the exception of service animals.