Light UP the Fairgrounds is back at the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Greenfield, turning the historic fairgrounds into a drive-through holiday light spectacular that’s perfect for a cozy night out in the car with family or friends.
Dates, times, and location
Light UP the Fairgrounds takes place at the Franklin County Fairgrounds at 85 Wisdom Way in Greenfield, Massachusetts. The 2025 schedule is:
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Friday–Sunday, November 28, 29, 30, 5–8 PM
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Friday–Sunday, December 5, 6, 7, 5–8 PM
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Friday–Saturday, December 12 & 13, 5–8 PM
Because it’s a drive-through event, you can arrive any time during open hours, enjoy the lights at your own pace, and stay warm and dry inside your vehicle.
How the drive-through works
Light UP the Fairgrounds transforms the roadway loop and infield areas into a route lined with creative holiday light displays, many designed and sponsored by local businesses, organizations, and community groups. Visitors stay in their cars and slowly drive through the fairgrounds, taking in everything from classic holiday scenes to playful themed setups, all illuminated against the nighttime sky.
As you go, you can look closely at each display, talk about your favorites, and note which ones you want to vote for at the end. The format makes it an easy outing for families with young kids, older relatives, or anyone who prefers a low-stress, accessible holiday activity.
Admission, donations, and who benefits
There is a minimum donation of $5 per carload to enter Light UP the Fairgrounds, making it an affordable option whether you come as a couple or pack the minivan. Every dollar from that donation goes to support local organizations: Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Franklin County Agricultural Society, Greenfield Rotary, and Kiwanis, so your night out directly benefits youth mentoring, community programs, and the stewardship of the fairgrounds.
Because admission is donation-based by vehicle rather than per person, it is especially budget-friendly for families, friend groups, and multi-generational households looking for a shared holiday activity with a charitable twist.
Voting, prizes, and community fun
One of the most fun aspects of Light UP the Fairgrounds is the voting. As you drive through, you are encouraged to pick out your favorite displays and then cast votes for the ones that really stand out. Displays are competing for cash prizes, so your votes help determine which groups and businesses take home top honors for creativity and holiday spirit.
This friendly competition keeps the displays fresh and imaginative from year to year, and it also gives community groups added incentive to participate, since winning can mean extra funds for their own missions and projects.
Tips for planning your visit
To make the most of your evening, consider arriving earlier in the time window on busy weekend nights, especially the opening weekend and the final Friday and Saturday, when lines of cars can be longer. Bringing a thermos of hot cocoa, snacks for the kids, and a playlist of holiday music can make the drive-through experience feel even more festive. Since the event is weather-resilient—you stay in your car—it’s a great option even on chilly or drizzly evenings, as long as road conditions are safe.
Check out other upcoming holiday events in Franklin County here.
Photo credit: Light Up the Fairgrounds
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