The Oil Center will transform into its own winter wonderland this Friday from 5-10 p.m. with the 19th Annual Festival of Light.
Aiming to burn brighter than in years past, this year's Festival of Light will provide a complete holiday atmosphere for Lafayette's Christmas crazed denizens.
Four stages will be constructed to provide live holiday performances from the likes of the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra and its students, Katherine Kirkpatrick, T'Monde, the GTO Band, and many more.
There will also be several family-friendly holiday events like a Gingerbread Wonderland courtesy of Twins Burgers & Sweets, a Sneaux Hill and a children's train ride and children's court with fun jumps, games, a rock wall and more.
Santa Claus will also be on hand for photographs and to receive letters from eager boys and girls. He'll also have his workshop on site where children can work alongside his elves to create their very own gift. Children can also visit his stable at Comet's Corner where they can see live reindeer.
Other events include a live Nativity performance by volunteers from several area churches including St. John the Evangelist Church and UL's Our Lady of Wisdom.
The Festival of Light begins on Friday, Dec. 7, from 5-10 p.m. at the Oil Center. For more information, including a detailed schedule of events, visit theoilcenter.com.