DARLINGTON, SC (Dec. 5, 2024) – The City of Darlington has transformed Wells Park into a magical holiday destination this winter by installing more than 80,000 Christmas lights.

The project is designed to spread holiday cheer to residents and help promote tourism during the months of December and January. More than 20 trees have been wrapped in 20,000 feet of lights.

“To see this project become a reality is truly amazing,” said Mayor Curtis Boyd. “Our residents are absolutely loving the new Christmas lights. Families have been taking photos non-stop in the park since we unveiled it. We’ve already seen visitors from as far away as Aiken. We invite everyone from across the Pee Dee and the state to also stop by and enjoy the illuminated park.”

It took City crews five days to complete the project. Crews from Darlington County Parks, Recreation and Tourism assisted, along with the Darlington Fire Department, Public and Community Affairs Department and Sanitation Department. Mosca Designs out of Raleigh, North Carolina designed the layout and company representative, Kyle Gauger, also assisted City crews throughout Thanksgiving week.

“Teamwork makes the dream work,” said City of Darlington Public and Community Affairs Director, Hunter Thomas. “We all came together prior to Thanksgiving and got to work so that this dream could become a reality. Everyone played a vital role. At one point, there were 15 of us stringing lights around the trees in the park. We’re going to host a couple of events in Wells Park, so we’re looking forward to seeing everyone this holiday season.”

Coming up on Saturday, Dec. 7, the City of Darlington will host Photos with Santa in Wells Park from 6 – 8 p.m., following the Downtown Darlington Christmas Festival. No reservations are needed, but attendees will need to provide their own phone or camera.

On Friday, Dec. 20, from 6 – 8 p.m., the City of Darlington will also be hosting Christmas Movie Night in the park. The classic movie, Elf, will be playing and attendees will have an opportunity to purchase popcorn, as well as hot chocolate, cider and more.

To learn more about the City of Darlington, visit cityofdarlington.com or call 843-398-4000.