Only the most enthusiastic festive season fans get into the spirit before the traditional lead up begins at December 1.

But it was fantastic to see so many people made an exception for the sake of what was a fantastic community event.

Scores of houses got into the spirit to have their Christmas lights out and ready during November, many in specific support of Griffith’s Got Spirit.

This Christmas will see a different lead up to the big day, with Council and The Area News launching a new and improved event called the Festival of Lights.

This Christmas period will officially be recognised by locals on December 1, when Rotary’s traditional ham raffles and chocolate wheels kick off the Festival of Lights.

Residents will still have the opportunity to jump on the Polar Express, and help to capture the imagination of an entire community by having their Christmas lights on show for judging.

The extra event continues Griffith’s thirst for fun family events, and the scope for growth is being realised with a raft of Christmas-themed family fun planned during December.

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There was a potential hole left in the Griffith calendar when the annual Christmas carols were abandoned for 2016.

But council has helped inject life back into the Griffith favourite event, organising an evening of carols likely to rival some of the best the city has seen.

Griffith’s Got Spirit’s success in 2016 meant the city had potential to host an annual Christmas event again.

And organisers are capitalising to make sure Christmas offerings in our city are supported and growing.

It’s especially special for those putting the time, effort and money aside to deck their homes out, and an opportunity to show off their hard work and be recognised.

The Area News and Griffith City Council-organised event will again take residents around Griffith to see the incredible Christmas lights.

Board the buses to tour the lights across the city with a special stop to see Santa.

Tours depart Memorial Park during weekends, travelling around the city to view houses whose owners have registered their Christmas lights through The Area News. 

Keep an eye out for details on the lead up to December 1.