The Way of Lights at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows

One of the best ways to channel the all-is-calm, all-is-bright serenity of a winter evening and the spirit of the Christmas season is by following The Way of Lights through the beautiful grounds of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows.  

Located in southwestern Illinois, about 10 miles east of St. Louis, Missouri, Our Lady of the Snows ranks among the nation’s largest outdoor shrines, and The Way of Lights is its annual drive-through Christmas card. It winds around the shrine’s hills and dales for 1.5 miles and tells the story of Mary’s and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem with more than 1.5 million lights and scores of colorful figures and displays.  

Beginning with a tunnel of twinkling lights adorned with colorful snowflakes and glowing red letters that proclaim “Merry Christmas,” The Way of Lights’ depictions include the angel Gabriel’s announcement that Mary will be the mother of Christ, Mary riding a donkey led by Joseph and a life-sized Nativity scene in a cave-like setting meant to represent the Lourdes Grotto in France. Enhancing this truly illuminating experience are pony and camel rides (for a nominal fee), a petting zoo and the shrine’s ever-popular kettle corn and funnel cakes.  

Inside the shrine’s visitor center, choral and dance groups provide live entertainment, and the gift shop carries meaningful, memorable items, including hand-painted nativity sets and more. Except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, The Way of Lights is open in the evenings from Nov. 21 through Dec. 31.  Although admission is free, donations are welcome, and anyone donating at least $18 receives a plush animal representing an endangered species. 442 S. DeMazenod Dr., Belleville, Illinois 62223, 618/397-6700, snows.org