A Magical Night at the Lucy Depp Light Show: Why Our Family Went Through THREE Times

There’s something about holiday lights that unlocks instant joy for kids — that wide-eyed wonder, the excited squeals, the “Mom, LOOK at that!” every few seconds. This year, our family found all of that (and more) at the Lucy Depp Light Show, and my boys loved it so much that… we went through three times. And honestly? I would’ve happily driven through a fourth.

A Light Show Filled With Heart and History

Set in the historic Lucy Depp Park community — one of the oldest Black settlements in Ohio — the light show began as a small neighborhood tradition created to share joy during the holiday season. Over time, it has grown into a beloved drive-through experience known across central Ohio. What started with a few homes decorating together has blossomed into a community-powered production full of synchronized lights, creative displays, and a whole lot of heart.

You can still feel that community spirit today. It doesn’t feel commercial or manufactured — it feels like neighbors creating magic for families everywhere.

Photo credit: LDP Lights

Family-Friendly Fun From Start to Finish

This is truly one of those rare holiday activities that works for every age and every stage. Here’s why:

✔ Completely Drive-Through

Stay warm and cozy while taking in every sparkling detail — no bundling, no stroller juggling, no shivering kids.

✔ A Custom Radio Station — With Its Own Theme Song

As you enter, you tune your radio to the Lucy Depp Light Show station, where the lights sync perfectly with the music. The playlist is festive, family-friendly, and even includes a custom song all about the Lucy Depp Light Show — which instantly became my boys’ favorite. Hearing the lights dance to the beat makes the whole experience feel immersive and magical.

✔ Scavenger Hunt for Kids (With a Chance to Win a Free T-Shirt!)

One of the best kid-friendly features? They offer a fun scavenger hunt that families can follow along with during the drive. Kids get to search for specific displays throughout the route — and once they complete it, they can enter for a chance to win a free T-shirt made by the show’s spokesgirl, who also appears on the radio playlist.

My boys were hooked. It kept them engaged the entire time… and yes, it was one of the reasons they insisted on going through again. And again.

✔ FREE to Enjoy (Donations Encouraged)

The entire show is free, which makes it accessible for every family. Donations are encouraged to help keep the tradition thriving — and once you see the amount of work and creativity involved, you’ll absolutely want to give if you can.

✔ A Relaxed, No-Pressure Family Outing

There were no lines of people, no crowds, no rushing. Just us, holiday music, twinkling lights, and two very excited boys in the backseat.

Why We Went Through Three Times

The first drive was full of “WOW” moments. The second was all about spotting things we missed — the boys were determined to complete their scavenger hunt perfectly. The third drive? That was pure holiday joy. By then, they knew the displays, sang along to the radio playlist, and declared it their “favorite Christmas light show ever.”

Moments like that are why we go — simple, genuine memories that stick.

Image credit: LDP Lights

A Tradition Worth Adding to Your Holiday Season

If you’re searching for a holiday outing that’s affordable, easy, magical, and genuinely kid-approved, the Lucy Depp Light Show should be at the top of your list.

Bring hot cocoa, tune in to their radio station, let the kids do the scavenger hunt, and enjoy a night filled with lights, music, and community spirit. And if your kids ask to loop around again?

Just do it. Some traditions are worth repeating.