It’s been many months since professional drivers and amateur thrill-seekers have been able to tear up the track at Castrol Raceway. So just what do you do with two kilometres of road course in an Alberta winter? The folks at Castrol Raceway and Canadian Tire have it all figured out – you can have a magical night at Magic of Lights!
The track has been transformed into a bright, captivating winter wonderland! Follow the well-marked light path to the main entry way to enjoy an enchanted drive through dozens and dozens of illuminated Christmas scenes! There are Santas and snowmen, fairy tale creatures and sports heroes, an animated 12 days of Christmas, and of course, a Nativity, complete with a glowing angel.
I was greeted at the main entry point by a cheery woman who suggested I tune my radio to 88.7 fm to enjoy the Christmas soundtrack provided by local radio station 92.5 The ‘Chuck. (There is also music played along the course, for the enjoyment of those taking in a Horsepower Hayride.) She offered that some drivers like to dim their headlights for a better view of the displays, and reminded me to return to full headlight power before I left the venue! Finally, she asked me to keep my speed above 5 kph but below 10!
I started off and soon spotted something I wanted to grab a photo of, so I signaled, pulled over and snapped my picture. I was passed by the Horsepower Hayride, and the driver informed me that stopping was not allowed. (Let that be a lesson – always travel with a passenger who can be responsible for the many great photo ops!)
I truly enjoyed the Magic of Lights, and can’t wait to return with my kids – I know they will absolutely adore it! Here’s what else you need to know before you go:
-Magic of Lights is now open every evening until January 6, 2018. Hours are 5 pm to 10 pm.
-Price for one carload is $25. For $20 more you can purchase a Dash Pass that allows you to skip the lineup and access the special Dash Pass lane.
-For $20 per person you can experience the Horsepower Hayride, an open air wagon pulled by truck. (Remember to bundle up if you are going to take this option!) That price includes VIP parking and hot chocolate. Want to take your own group on a Horsepower Hayride? Private bookings can be made!
-The folks at Castrol Raceway report that the busiest time are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. If you choose to visit during these times, please bring your cheery Christmas spirit to help you relax and enjoy the ride!
-Watch social media to keep tabs on wait times. @CastrolRaceway on both Twitter and Facebook will post information if estimated wait times exceed 40 minutes.
-To access Castrol Raceway, take Highway 2 south of Edmonton. Turn West at the Devon exit 525. The Magic of Lights sign is approximately 1 kilometre off Highway 2.
A Magical Night at Magic of Lights:
When: Friday, November 19, 2021 to Saturday, January 8, 2022
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: RAD Torque Raceway, Highway 19, Nisku
Cost: Tickets starting at $30/car
Website: www.castrolraceway.com
