During the 14th Annual Hannaford Capital Holiday Lights, the Albany Police Athletic League introduces three special nights that benefit the community during which walkers can stroll a special route of festive lights along Washington Park’s lake.
Through the years, we’ve been asked to allow walkers through the show. For safety reasons, this isn’t possible during the regular, drive-through nights, explained Albany PAL Executive Director Sgt. (Ret) Lenny Ricchiuti.
`This year, we’ll have three special nights — before and after the show is open to vehicular traffic. And, each has a special purpose,` he said.
On Nov. 23, patrons participated in the `Stuff the Albany Trolley` event to benefit Albany PAL’s Annual Toy Drive. The following night, light-lookers were asked to make a cash donation to help the animals at the Mohawk-Hudson Humane Society and the Animal Protective Foundation, as part of the `Pets Walk Your Parents Night` at the lights.
The giving doesn’t stop with the holidays, however. On Jan. 3, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., it’s time for `PAL Packs the Pantry.` A monetary donation will benefit local food pantries on the very final, walk-only night at the show.
`We hope that the community will come out to enjoy the walk around the Washington Park Lake and to help us help those in need,` Ricchiuti said.
The 14th Annual Hannaford Capital Holiday Lights is open to vehicles through Jan. 2, with this year’s theme, `The Magic of the Season.` The spectacle has more than 125 displays and scenes and Santa awaits visitors at the Lake House.
For additional cost, patrons can take in the lights from a carriage or trolley. Thursday through Sunday evenings, horse-drawn carriage rides are available by calling Saratoga Horse and Carriage. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling Tony at 584-8820. The Albany Trolleys will also be available to charter for outings. To charter the trolleys, call 462-3825.
Live reindeer will be visiting in front of the Lake House on Dec. 5, 12, 19 and 23.
Gates open at 6 p.m. daily and remain open until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Admission prices are $15 per car; $25 per limousine or 15-passenger van; and $75 per bus, with all proceeds benefiting the youth programs of Albany PAL. Discounted tickets are available for $10 at Hannaford Supermarkets for admission on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. A $5 discount is offered on Monday, Tuesdays and Wednesdays as well for those showing their Times Union SourceCard. Only one discount per admission will be honored.
To volunteer at Hannaford Capital Holiday Lights, call Albany PAL at 435-0392.
For more information and the most up-to-date schedule of events at Hannaford Capital Holiday Lights, visit www.albanycapitalholidaylights.com or call Albany PAL.“