My sons could hardly wait when I told them we were going to see this spirit filled show the weekend prior to Thanksgiving. Now ages 9 and 14, the first time we came here was in 1993, the year after it opened. This is our fourth trip—a trip filled with such magic, beauty, and family fun that the boys made me promise that this will be our family’s "official holiday kickoff" from this year forward.

Callaway adds new scenes to its display every year, keeping the tour fresh and captivating. This year’s addition is entitled "Enchanted Rainbow Forest." And "enchanting" is an understatement! In this delightful scene, pixies sprinkle their magic dust over the landscape, making green plants sprout from the ground. Colorful buds then bloom and become beautiful full-grown flowers representing each season. Overhead, brilliant arches of light spread from side to side in an array of colors to complement the twelve specimens of native Southeastern flowers represented.

We also eagerly anticipated getting to see some of our "old favorites." During the car trip to Pine Mountain we talked about scenes that had become etched in our memories from holidays past. Most vivid were our memories of Santa’s Workshop, The March of the Toy Soldiers, The Twelve Days of Christmas, and Snowflake Valley. But my youngest wants to make sure that you watch for one of his all time favorites, the scene with the frog and lily pad!

You can experience these music filled, animated, glimmering roadside scenes from either the comfort of your own car or riding the trolley. While we have done both, we recommend the trolley for families with children old enough to be outside in the crisp December night air. You can snuggle under the insulated blankets they provide, enjoy the show, and then finish off the evening with a mug of steaming hot cocoa.

Open nightly through December 27, this holiday tradition of the South, chosen as a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society, will send your spirits soaring! Plan to arrive early so you can tour the gardens during the day. You don’t want to miss the very special "70 Years of Santa" exhibit. Presented by the Coca-Cola Company, it features an original and historical display of Haddon Sundblom’s original Santa artwork at the Callaway Discovery Center.

My sons also told me that I must not forget to mention the Callaway Christmas Village. It is alive with merriment and fun activities for all ages. Two very special angel ornaments the boys made on an earlier visit are now treasures displayed on our family Christmas tree. There are crafters demonstrating their skills, live entertainment, educational exhibits, gift booths, festive holiday décor, and costumed characters to greet visitors into this magical world. And of course, the "real" Santa and Mrs. Claus are there to listen to every child’s (and Mom’s and Dad’s) Christmas wishes. Dress in festive (but warm) attire and have your family’s picture made on Santa’s lap.

Make plans now to experience "Fantasy in Lights" Holiday and Sound Spectacular! Tickets may be pre-purchased by calling 1-800-CALLAWAY (225-5292) from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $10/adult and $5/child (6-12) Monday through Thursday (except holidays), and $12/adult and $6/child Friday through Sunday and holidays. Children five and under are free but require a "free child" ticket. Group rates are also available.