SPRINGFIELD – In a year where so many events have been cancelled, The Spirit of Springfield announced on Sept. 24 that Bright Nights at Forest Park would be open to visitors stating Nov. 25.

Patrick Sullivan, executive director of Springfield’s Department of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management, said at a press conference, “The decision didn’t come about lightly.”

Sullivan explained The Spirit of Springfield worked with an industrial hygienist and Helen Caulton Harris, commissioner for the Springfield Department of Health and Human Services, in making sure safety precautions were in place for the annual holiday light display.

“We need this shot in the arms more than ever,” Mayor Domenic Sarno said. “No one wants Bright Nights more than I do.”

There are changes, though, this year due to the pandemic. They include masks, regular cleaning, on-line ticketing and more.  Restrooms will be for emergency use only and the usual bustling gift shop, amusement rides, horse-drawn wagon and carriage rides, and visits with and Supper with Santa will not be available this year.

Bright Nights is more than a holiday tradition as it pumps $15 million in economic impact annually, according to information supplied by the Spirit of Springfield.
Spirit of Springfield President Judy Matt said because people tour the exhibit in their cars Bright Nights is “inherently safe.”

She said there will be an additional announcement about a new feature this year, but added, “Every display will be back.”

Bright Nights at Forest Park is a three-mile course through Forest Park featuring more than 675,000 lights and light displays depicting Seuss Land, the Everett Barney Mansion and many more.  
The season will open on Nov. 25, and operate through Jan. 3, 2021.  Admission will be $23 per car weeknights, weekdays and holidays.  Discounted tickets will be available at participating Big Y World Class Markets for $16.50.  Due to bus capacity limitations set by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, admission for buses has been reduced to $100 for buses with capacity of more than 30 people.  Vehicles with seating from 17 to 30 people will be charged $50 for admission.

Bright Nights’ 26th season is sponsored by AAA-Pioneer Valley, Balise Auto, Baystate Health, Big Y World Class Markets, Charlie Arment Trucking Inc., Comcast, Eversource Energy, Gleason Johndrow Landscaping, Health New England (HNE), iHeart Media, MassLive, MassMutual, Mercy Medical Center, MGM Springfield, MP PC, PeoplesBank, The Republican, Sheraton Springfield, Springfield Thunderbirds, WWLP-22News and more.

“Springfield continues to shine,” Sarno said.