It was a massive turnout for the opening weekend of the 17th season of the Aurora Festival of Lights. More than 4,000 vehicles, with more than 12,000 onlookers inside, passed through the popular free one-mile holiday lights display during the two-day weekend festivities. In addition to seeing nearly 100 light displays, guests were welcomed into the park on the first night by an 8-ft tall dancing illuminated robot and greeted by Mickey Mouse as they left the park. On the second night, heroes of the Aurora Fire Department were out in uniform to say hello to the families. Cars lined up for over a half-mile to enter the festival, some well before it opened each night at 5 p.m.. The event is free, but donations are accepted to support youth and mental health programs in Aurora. Last year, more than $80,000 was donated. The Aurora Festival of Lights is open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. nightly through Christmas Night.City government of Aurora photos
