MERIDEN — Hubbard Park has been busy at night with more vehicles than ever coming to view the annual Silver Lights Festival.

Residents drive through the park to see snowflakes, reindeer,  swans, dolphins, Santa Claus and other lighted displays. The park stage is filled with Christmas trees. 

Thor Schroeder, a Wallingford resident, said while he hasn’t driven through the park yet, he can see the lights at night as he drives on the highway.

“My kids come with their friends every year and they love it,” he said.

This year’s Silver Lights Festival was a little different from previous years because residents are advised to remain in their vehicles.

“There hasn’t been 100 percent compliance,” said Parks and Recreation Director Chris Bourdon. “With the snow coming hopefully that’ll keep everyone in their cars.”

Bourdon said there has been a major increase in cars driving through the park this year as he predicted. 

“The turnout has been phenomenal,” he said. “There is no doubt this year will be the most attended ever.”

There are two new displays in the park this year. One is a heart created by Parks and Recreation employee Jeremy Gaj. The other is a character skiing made by a company in Utah.

The red heart can be seen on the top of Castle Craig. It is a tribute to first responders and front line employees. 

“I think it’s great,” Amy Pesce, a Cheshire resident, said about the lights. “I usually come every year.” 

The park is open for the Silver Lights Festival every night until Jan. 3.   

fwilliams@record-journal.com203-317-2373Twitter: @faith_williams2