54th Annual Way of Lights Now Open at Belleville Shrine
Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows
For 54 years, the Shrine Our Lady of Snows’ Annual Way of Lights Christmas display has sparkled over the Shrine grounds while putting a sparkle in the eyes of children and adults of all ages. Since 1970, the Missionary Oblate Fathers and Brothers have been telling the story of the birth of Christ in an ever-growing light display featuring over 1.5 million lights. The breathtaking display now includes additional color lights to celebrate Christs’ birthday. As always, driving through the mile of lights and lighted sculptures is absolutely free. Additional special activities with admission fees include camel rides, pony rides and a giant LEGO exhibit. Visit Snows.org for details.
The lights tell the story of the journey of Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Christ with lighted angels, the caravan and city of Bethlehem, ending at the life-sized nativity scene at Lourdes Grotto.
There are different activities for young and old alike – the camel rides and petting zoo are back, along with the MO Kettle Corn folks, keeping us warm with hot chocolate and a variety of kettle corn flavors. At the visitors center we will have our Christmas tree room in the lobby this year, other free activities include viewing the spectacular Christmas wreaths up for auction, a “selfie area” complete with a Christmas backdrop where you can save your Way of Lights memory on your own photos, and you can tour the “Arctic Wings and Shrine Exhibit,” a multi-media experience which tells the story of the Missionary Oblates. In addition, there is our fantastic Gift Shop, and the Shrine food stand will be offering hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos and more.
Children who marveled at the spectacular lights in days gone bye now bring their own children and grandchildren to be inspired as they were by the enchanting Way of Lights. Families come from Illinois, Missouri and beyond to enjoy the special holiday tradition that is the Way of Lights.
The Way of Lights is open nightly, 5-9 PM through December 31, 2023.
