A "must go." Being new-ish to New England, I was unaware of what La Salette brings, come Christmastime. It was a surprise on date night to walk up and see dazzling light displays as far as I could see! Since there's a lot to absorb-- and many people might read this review looking for tips-- I'll try and break down La Salette's Christmas Festival of Lights.
Parking:
The biggest ordeal is parking. La Salette offers a giant-sized parking lot, and still, there's a line waiting for miles up the road-- yes, miles. For those who are able-bodied-- and willing-- you can always park off-site and walk in. That's what we opted to do. We found a spot within a half mile, and hoofed it. There's no cost to park on site, so if you're happy to wait, do so; just be aware, a few other reviewers have complained of a significant wait time, especially on weekends closest to Christmas.
Cost:
There is no cost to park, and no entrance fee. Everything I saw to "do" or partake in at La Salette was free, including a Christmas concert (inside), outdoor live music, and the International Creche museum. Food and beverages are available for sale but surprisingly affordable (think, $2 for coffee or hot chocolate). La Salette's Festival of Lights runs mostly on donations, so please give if you're able to.
To Do:
-Christmas Concert: held inside in a "hall" type venue. Seating is first come first served; they announce times over the speaker, and there's also a sign up outside the hall. While the singers may be "amateur", it's a wonderful treat for people to be able to enjoy (and to warm up to!).
-outdoor music: throughout the time we were there, La Salette also had a musician outside the food court. It was particularly cold the night we visited, but for more mild nights, it would be rather enjoyable to sit, sip some cocoa, and listen to some live music.
-International Creche museum: exactly what you'd imagine. Floor to ceiling examples of creches (nativities) from around the world. We enjoyed walking through-- take your time and enjoy all the different styles and materials, by countries from Paraguay to Japan!
-Christmas lights: obviously this is the big draw. There's lights in trees, lights on bushes, lighted decorations everywhere. Christmas music is pumped through loud speakers and can be heard at almost every spot in the park. Lots of opportunities for family pictures (or candid photos with friends or loved ones), so bring your camera, or make sure your iPhone is charged.
-life-size nativity with a real donkey: kiddos love this, but I don't believe he's available to be pet. They do sell stuffed donkeys nearby to placate unhappy toddlers.
-Catholic iconography: for those seeking a more spiritual experience, there's opportunities abounding here. Velas (candles) can be lit at multiple for a nominal (small) donation. I believe I saw the Stations of the Cross. There's also a beautifully somber stairway to the cross, where one can pray on their knees on each step, all the way up to the top. If you're not religious, you will still greatly enjoy the sanctity of this grand, yet heartwarming, place.
-gift shop: La Salette's gift shop is teeming with people! There's lots of religious (Catholic) gifts and personal items, from bibles, to First Communion gifts, to patron saint jewelry, and everything in between. They also sell Christmas ornaments and creches, a nice annual tradition to start with your family: picking out an ornament or a creche figure each year! Prices, again, are reasonable and not theme-park priced.
-food and drink: inside the "main building" is a small concessions stand (beverages and take-and-eat food), with a food court on the end of the building. One sign advertised "Make Your Own Smores!" on the fire-pit outside. There's also stand-alone concessions scattered throughout the area, selling fried dough and other delectables.
My one complaint is regarding the noise during Festival of Lights! With *so* many families in attendance (especially as you near Christmas Day), the peace and "holiness" of the place is all but destroyed by hundreds of screaming kids and low-class "hooligans" (am I getting old?!), some of which had obviously been imbibing heavily prior to their arrival. I wish there was a place that you could sit and reflect quietly, listening to the tinkling of Christmas carols, and be away from all the hubbub and chaos.
All in all, La Salette's Christmas Festival of Lights is a wonder for both young and old. There's plenty to do and see, so come a little early and enjoy everything this beautiful Christmas tradition has to offer. Let's all try to enjoy this experience together! read more