In the night of Christ's birth, heavenly angels appeared before shepards, proclaiming the coming of the Savior. Their light guided the sheperds to Bethlehem where they discovered our Lord.

Over 2000 years later, guiding lights are still leading the way to the birth of the Christ Child. At the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, over one million brilliant Christmas lights guide travelers along the journey to Bethlehem.

The 35th annual Way of Lights, which runs from November 15 through January 6, is a light display that depicts the true meaning of Christmas. Unlike some other holiday displays which may carry a secular tone, the Way of Lights is devoted to Christian beliefs.

As Tom Mulhall, Marketing Director of the Shrine, explained, “We focus on the true Christmas Story. There’s no commercialism involved. Even the fun things, like the life-size Lego Nativity or the camel rides, all tie into the story of Christ’s birth.”

The Way of Lights also ties into the Oblates’ mission. “The Oblate mission is to evangelize,” he continued. “With the exception of a few activities, the Way of Lights is free to everyone. When a family wants to celebrate Christmas, but may not be able to afford it, they can come to the Shrine.”

From brightly lit angels on high to colorful shepherds on their journey, the Way of Lights is both entertaining and inspirational.