Magic of Lights Rentschler Field is an enchanting holiday drive-through experience located in East Hartford, Connecticut. It is a dazzling display of lights and holiday-themed installations that bring joy and wonder to both children and adults alike. The event takes place at the Rentschler Field, a famous football stadium that transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season. The Magic of Lights event at Rentschler Field features over a mile of impressive light displays that are synchronized to festive music, creating a truly immersive and enchanting experience. Visitors can drive through the display at their own pace, allowing families to enjoy the spectacle at their convenience. This drive-through format ensures that everyone can experience the magic of the lights without having to leave the comfort of their vehicles.
• Each magic of light shows uses about 10 miles of steel to build the displays and 10 miles of LED lighting installed inside the displays, there are 10 different colors of LED bulbs used in the shows.
The steel displays are designed, bent, cut and welded into about 800 frames that are combined in different configurations to create each show s giant winter holiday scenes. Tickets can be used any night Magic of Lights is open, Admission is 15 for any day ticket through November 1 st , tickets are per vehicle, NOT per person.
This drive-through format ensures that everyone can experience the magic of the lights without having to leave the comfort of their vehicles. In addition to the stunning light displays, Magic of Lights Rentschler Field also offers various activities and attractions. These include a display of larger-than-life holiday characters, such as Santa Claus and his reindeer, snowmen, and nutcrackers.
Magic of Lights at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in East Hartford
My family’s favorite way to kick off the holiday season is to pile into the car (especially with yummy snacks or maybe a travel mug of hot cocoa!) and drive through one of the many mesmerizing holiday light displays in our area. It’s a tradition we started waaaaay back when my now 11-year-old was only 15 months old.
My little “Boo” decked out in his cozy pajamas and ready for his first ride through a holiday light display. Ten years later the tradition continues!
This year, we were lucky enough to be invited to preview Magic of Lights at Pratt & Whitney Stadium, which is just a few minutes down the road from us in East Hartford.
Photo courtesy of Magic of LightsYou may recall that last year Magic of Lights was held at Toyota Oakdale Theater in Wallingford, where it attracted more than 190,000 guests during the holiday season. This year, Magic of Lights has moved to the Hartford area, and the drive-through experience is equally dazzling! Themed light displays using the latest LED technology and digital animations include the all new drive-through Blizzard Tunnel as well as returning favorites including 12 Days of Christmas, Winter Wonderland and The Night Before Christmas. And best of all, families and friends will experience the thrill of Magic of Lights from the comfort of their own cars– it’s the ultimate pandemic-proof holiday experience!
This is a cashless event, and you can even purchase your tickets ahead of time online for the ultimate in convenience (tickets will still be available at the gate for an increased price). Then it’s as easy as waving your QR code (straight from your phone or on a printout) at the entrance gate and you’re off!
The light displays spring up along a mile of winding road where visitors are encouraged to turn off their headlights and cruise at a steady slow pace to get the full dazzling effect. Don’t forget to tune your radio to 101.9 for festive tunes for the ride! Since we were there on a very uncrowded evening (Tuesday night is the time to go! LOL), we really got to take our time and enjoy every one of the fantastic light creations. Here are a few of our favorites!
You’ll spot magical creatures, wintery scenes, as well as a collection of holiday-themed displays. Our family celebrates Hanukkah, so we always appreciate the addition of a stunning menorah!
We had so much fun trying to spot all the Twelve Days of Christmas! And the candyland displays got us excited for another one of our annual holiday traditions– gingerbread house decorating!
Magic of Lights will open each day from 5pm and run through 10pm during the run of the show, though some exclusions may apply. Please visit www.magicoflights.com for a complete schedule. Tickets can be used any night Magic of Lights is open.
Now is a great time to visit Magic of Lights because through December 9th the cost is only $30 for a weekday ticket and $35 for an any day ticket, which includes weekends. Beginning Dec 10 – Jan 2, a weekday ticket will be $40 and an any day ticket is $45 when purchased online. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate for $50 on a weekday and $55 on a weekend (including fees). All tickets are per vehicle, NOT per person– so bring the whole extended family! And here’s a little insider tip: you can even plan to have little ones ride on adult passenger laps as you drive through because Holiday of Lights provides a “Buckle Up” area at the end of the drive through so you can all get safely settled back into your seats and buckled up before heading back out to the real road. So no arguments about who is going to have to sit in the back or in the middle! It’s a holiday miracle 🙂
Contactless tickets are on sale now at tickets.magicoflights.com. For more information and a complete schedule please visit www.magicoflights.com.
We hope we’ve inspired you to start a new tradition with your family this holiday season!
November 2 - December 8 ticket prices are as follows:
There are also interactive exhibits, such as a tunnel of lights and animated displays that bring the holiday spirit to life. The Magic of Lights event at Rentschler Field has become a beloved holiday tradition for many families in the Connecticut area. It is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season and create lasting memories with loved ones. The breathtaking lights and festive atmosphere make it a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the magic and wonder of the holidays. Overall, the Magic of Lights Rentschler Field is a truly magical experience that brings joy and wonder to visitors of all ages. From the dazzling light displays to the interactive exhibits, there is something for everyone to enjoy. It is a holiday event that should not be missed and is sure to create lasting memories for years to come..
Reviews for "An Enchanted Evening: Experiencing the Magic of Lights at Rentschler Field"
1. John - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with the Magic of Lights at Rentschler Field. The drive-through experience was underwhelming and lacked any real magic. The light displays were small and repetitive, and there wasn't much variety. I expected a grand and immersive experience, but it felt like a mundane drive through a poorly decorated parking lot. I wouldn't recommend it unless you have very low expectations.
2. Emily - 2 stars - The Magic of Lights at Rentschler Field was a major letdown for me. The ticket prices were quite high, but the overall experience did not live up to the cost. The light displays were lackluster and lack creativity. I've seen more impressive light shows in my neighbor's backyard during Christmas. The whole event felt rushed and poorly executed. Save your money and find a better light display elsewhere.
3. Sarah - 1 star - I had heard so much hype about the Magic of Lights at Rentschler Field, but it didn't live up to expectations at all. The light displays were poorly coordinated and seemed haphazardly thrown together. Some of the lights were even burned out or flickering, which ruined the overall experience. It felt like a money-grab rather than a genuine attempt to create a magical holiday experience. I was extremely disappointed and wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
4. David - 2 stars - The Magic of Lights at Rentschler Field was a letdown for me and my family. The light displays were basic and predictable. We expected to be wowed by extravagant and unique displays, but it fell flat. The lack of effort and creativity was evident throughout the entire drive-through experience. It was just a money pit that didn't deliver on its promises. We won't be returning next year.