One of the Valley's top Christmas traditions is back for another year, as the Bright Up the Night light display will open at the Alaska State Fair on Thanksgiving.

The Bright Up the Night event at the fair consists of more than 70 holiday light displays across the fairgrounds, more than half of which are all new for 2022. It's the largest drive-through holiday light display in Alaska, and is the perfect way to get into the spirit of the season.

From the warmth and safety of your own car, you can proceed about a mile through the fairgrounds from the Purple Gate to the Green Gate to see the amazing displays, which are coordinated to music you can tune in on your car radio. The event has become a holiday tradition in Palmer since 2020.

The annual event begins November 24 on Thursday through Sunday only, but then beginning December 15 daily through December, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. each evening. Tickets must be purchased in advance at www.alaskastatefair.org and are on sale now. Personal use vehicles (up to eight people) is $20 before November 23 and $25 after. A van or limo (nine to 20 passengers) is $35 and $40 after November 23, and a motorcoach (21-50 people) is $70 and $75 after November 23. There are a limited number of tickets available for each time slot to ensure everyone can enjoy the light display at their own pace.

Also taking place on the fairgrounds is The Christmas Factory, an interactive holiday experience for kids that includes an hour tour, a meeting with Santa, a visit with Mrs. Claus and a personalized letter to Santa, among other activities. While they are two separate events, The Christmas Factory does offer a 10 percent discount to those who participate in Bright Up the Night.