Tall Pines Forest of Lights quickly became one of the leading holiday attractions in Susquehanna County when it debuted last year, and organizers are promising another magical experience despite having to scale back some of its elements. The drive-through attraction at the Tall Pines Players Club near Friendsville will be open from Friday, Nov. 27 to Wednesday, Dec. 30.
The exhibit features more than a mile of lighted trees and whimsical displays designed to capture the beauty of the season. Forest of Lights coordinator Tom Follert estimates that more than $40,000 people in Pennsylvania’s northern tier and New York’s southern tier enjoyed the extravaganza in 2019.
“It was a great year,” said Follert, who credits golf club owner Adam Diaz for wanting to develop a light show for the community. “We really wanted to provide a Christmas experience for people, and it took off like wildfire. We were just thrilled.”
Though a lot of pieces are manufactured off site, Follert is responsible for tying the themes together. He oversaw the production of three pieces that celebrated Susquehanna County icons like the Starrucca Bridge, the courthouse in Montrose, and St. Joseph’s Church in Friendsville. “People were really wowed by the local themes,” he told us. “Parents told us that it was very nostalgic and brought a lot of joy to their kids.”
The work starts in September with the wrapping of more than 1,000 trees with some of the 500,000-plus lights. Except for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the Forest of Lights will be open from 5 to 9 pm. The cost for vehicles with up to eight passengers is $25, and $50 for vehicles with nine to 15 passengers.
An abundance of caution related to the pandemic will require that guests remain in their vehicle as they enjoy the exhibit. Santa’s Workshop will not be open to the public at Santa’s request, as he wants to keep his elves safe while they make toys. Children will see him at the end of the ride, however, and can drop their Christmas wish lists in Santa’s mailbox.
Numerous businesses in the region are purchasing blocks of tickets this year to ensure that their employees and their families get in on the holiday cheer. The restaurant at Tall Pines will be open with limited seating capacity, so reservations will be required. Guest can also order food from a limited menu when they arrive and pick it up as they leave. For more information, log on to www.tallpinesplayersclub.com.
