December 12, 2022 3:20 a.m.

Organizers say the Festival of Lights is heading into high gear, with Christmas less than two weeks away.

Brian Prawitz said the Dutch Bros Holiday Village is a huge hit. Prawitz said kids can write letters to Santa, and visit with Santa in person. Kids can also meet some of their favorite movie characters, see the model railroad and Santa doll collection, and have treats provided by the Riversdale Grange all in one stop before or after driving through the display of lights at River Forks Park. Holiday Village is open Thursdays through Sundays starting at 5:30 p.m.

Prawitz said while tickets to the drive through can be purchased at the gate, the line is much smoother and faster when people buy tickets online at: www.uvfestivaloflights.com.

The Umpqua Valley Festival of Lights is open nightly starting at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $10 per vehicle.