COOS BAY — One of Oregon’s most unique holiday lights displays has returned after a two-year hiatus, but there are some big changes, including the need to get a timed entry permit to visit.
Shore Acres State Park has once again turned its formal gardens above the ocean outside Coos Bay into a wonderland of lights between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve.
Created by volunteers and community members 35 years ago, the annual lights display features 350,000 bulbs and typically gets visits from around 70,000 who can watch light-up whales dive and frogs jump while sipping hot apple cider and sometimes listening to bell choirs.
This year is bringing change, however, following years of growing crowds at the popular event. A timed entry system for visitors to park their vehicles, similar to the one used this summer in the Columbia River Gorge, is required.
The event parking fee is the same as the normal day-use parking permit price for the park, but now instead of paying at the entrance booth, people must reserve it at ReserveAmerica, for a specific time period to enter. Visitors can reserve at: bit.ly/3FyafXz
There are a certain number of permits for every hour. And the permits are going fast for holiday time periods. Visitors will no longer have the option to purchase a parking permit on-site to park and attend. Reservations can also be made by calling 800-452-5687.
The printed ticket, as well as the selected pass, permit, or campground confirmation, must be presented to park staff at entry to keep traffic moving.
— Salem Statesman-Journal
