Get into the holiday spirit at this year's holiday lights spectacular, Christmas in the Park, which opens at the Lillian Recreational Park on Dec. 2. Come see how the park has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind Christmas wonderland, with thousands of twinkling lights, a 20' wonderland tree, and festive exhibits around the park.

This year's celebration will include a giant Christmas card contest. Businesses and organizations were asked to create giant 4'x8' plywood Christmas cards to be displayed around the park's walking trail. The cards will be judged, and prizes will be given in three categories, most creative, most holiday spirit and community favorite, during opening ceremonies. People will have a chance to vote for their favorite on Facebook and at the park until noon on Dec. 2.

Christmas in the Park opens at 3 p.m. However, earlier in the day, Santa's elves will be hosting an Elf Run for kids 12 and under. Kids are asked to dress as elves for this fun run.

The Elf Run is free and begins at 9 a.m. There will be two runs, one for children under the age of 6 and one for children ages 7 to 12. Preregistration is not necessary. Just be at the Park no later than 8:45 a.m. to sign up and participate. The run will be staged around the park soccer field.

Santa and Mrs. Claus have indicated they will arrive at the park around 4:15 p.m. and that they are bringing a few of their favorite elves with them to help hand out goodie bags. Unfortunately, Rudolph is unable to attend since he's resting up for his big night later in the month.

A variety of children's activities will start at 3 p.m. Make an ornament, have a snowball fight, play games like "Pin the nose on Rudolph," or write a letter to Santa. There will also be music by Curt Cantrell, face painting, hot chocolate and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The "Launching of the Lights" will be at 5:30 p.m.

This year, Christmas in the Park is partnering with Toys for Tots, so there will be a box you may use to donate toys and books to the toy drive. The box will be available for donations until Dec. 10.

Organizers are excited this year about this year's offerings.

"Christmas in the Park has become a family favorite. Last year, over 10,000 people visited our month-long lights display, with many people coming multiple times just to sit and enjoy the lights," said Lucy Smith, Christmas in the Park volunteer. "This year, our incredibly hard-working volunteers have added some new features we think people are going to love, including our Christmas train that will take children around the Park and our new, soon-to-be holiday favorite, 'Merry-Oke' Christmas caroling night on Dec. 14."

The lights will be on, weather permitting, through Dec. 31. Admission and parking are free. Golf carts will be available opening day to transport anyone with mobility issues.

The Park is located at 33914 Widell Ave. in Lillian. For more information on Christmas in the Park, visit the www.LillianRecreationalPark.org or call the park at (251) 962-2129.