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Jones Beach Holiday Light Show To Return After Going Dark In 2007

JONES BEACH, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – It's back!

A popular holiday light show is returning after going dark for seven years due to budget cuts.

TV 10/55's Long Island Bureau Chief Richard Rose says this year, money has been found to light up Jones Beach.

Even amid the raindrops Thursday, you could see the legendary characters already lining Ocean Parkway along the beach's west end.

Soon, park managers will flip back the switch, bringing back a show last seen in 2007.

Jones Beach holiday light show
(Credit: New York State Parks Office)

"Now, it's back. An exciting time and it should be great," State Parks Manager George Gorman said.

Gorman says that before it shutdown, a quarter-million people a year drove along the two and a half mile-long display.

"I go down to Jones Beach a lot and I do miss it, yes," Bethpage resident Vinny Marano said.

Marano is among those who missed the show and plan to bring his still growing family to see it.

"I think it's great for the kids. Let's face it, Christmas is for the kids. I have a grandson and I know as he gets older, he's going to love it," he said.

Teens who had been missing out on seeing Rudolph's red nose say they are psyched to see the new display.

"If it wasn't there, it's like the loss of a cultural experience, being a part of this town for so long, I think it's truly awesome they're really supporting the community again," Blake Fruchtman said.

When the weather clears, workers will begin constructing a snowy Santa's village blazed with multicolored lights.

"At Santa's village, of course, Santa is going to be there. There will be snacks and beverages. There is going to be a maze for kids, it's going to be a fun time," Gorman said.

Gorman says tickets will range from $20-25 per vehicle.

The lights start shining on November 20 and stay through January 4.

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