The Way of Lights has been a Christmas institution at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville, Il for over 40 years! 1.5 Million Christmas lights glow nightly from the end of November through the first weekend in January attracting thousands of people from across the country. Along with lights, visitors can enjoy camel and donkey rides, a Children’s Village complete with arts and crafts and an interactive puppet show, a Christmas tree display room, a full service restaurant, and a laser light show to name a few things. Driving through the lights is free of charge, donations are accepted at the end – but not required, and most of the activities are free or are offered for a small fee (most sub $5). Following the Way of Lights season is the Way of Lights 5k Run! Hundreds of runners brave the cold weather and get a chance to experience the lights in a new way – on foot!
Keystone has partnered with the Way of Lights since the 2005 season providing traffic staff, photo staff and Children’s Village staff members. Our staff is integral in providing a safe and pleasurable experience at the Way of Lights nightly. Our traffic staff helps direct visitors to the different activities, answers questions, and keeps traffic flowing smoothly throughout the path. Inside, Keystone staff run the photo center, oversees the arts and crafts in the Children’s Village and interacting with visitors during the puppet show.
