GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) - The 10th annual Harbor Lights Winter Festival in Gulfport opens Friday with new attractions at Jones Park.
The festival’s newest addition is an entrance to Santa’s Workshop built inside a large present structure.
“You walk through this beautiful present that’s been built into what is theoretically just a long hallway,” said Billy Lehman, Gulfport assistant director of leisure services.
Despite starting construction three weeks later than normal due to Cruisin’ the Coast, the team completed Santa’s Village two days ahead of schedule.
The workshop includes two main areas with photo opportunities and Christmas trees. Staff decorated all displays throughout the attraction.
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“Everything you see here is decorated by our seasonal staff, and they just do an amazing job. We couldn’t do it without them,” said Lehman.
Santa will be available every night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The festival offers both professional photography services and allows visitors to take their own pictures.
Harbor Lights Winter Festival includes a 40-acre display with two million lights. Visitors can also enjoy carnival rides, hot chocolate, and train rides.
The festival is open from November 29 to December 31, except Christmas Eve. The festival runs from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
For more information about the annual festival, visit their website.
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