When I was a kid, a trip into town to see someone from the telly switch on the lights was the highlight of the Christmas calendar.
But now, it's all about long, rambling festive trails with huge art installations and thousands of twinkling lights, so we visited Kent's newest one to see what all the fuss is about.
For the first time this year, Port Lympne Illuminated is transforming the 600-acre wildlife park in Hythe into a glittering winter wonderland with a fairy disco and Santa's Grotto.
The park has racked up a host of celebrity visitors and is often named as one of the top attractions in the county, so I was curious to see how their latest venture would stack up.
The experience started before we even stepped inside the gate with a small cluster of vintage funfair rides in the car park.
We were welcomed by the friendly staff, who seemed just as excited as we were for opening night. This cheery atmosphere continued all evening, and every team member we met along the way seemed to be in great spirits.
There are 22 stops along the trail but, before we got started, we were lucky enough to get an exclusive sneak peek at Santa's Grotto.
The grotto wasn't officially open until the following day, but I can absolutely guarantee that those who have booked a slot to meet the big man are in for a treat.
It's beautifully decorated, down to the very last detail, including Santa's shopping receipt and his magical passport that lets him fly all over the world.
The room itself is grand and traditional, but also warm and cosy, and will make for some stunning family photos.
The trail takes you on a winding path through the wildlife park with seasonal music playing as you follow the route.
There is, of course, a spectacular light tunnel (because no festive trail is complete without one), but Port Lympne has also added some more unique illuminations that had people genuinely gasping with delight.
The holographic tiger that appears from behind the trees, the row of fairies dancing in their bubbles, the talking tree projection and the twinkling animal figures are unlike anything I've ever seen.
The fairy disco is a particular highlight. The massive dancefloor, complete with disco balls and an animated fairy DJ playing pop tunes, is sure to be a hit with kids.
It's just outside the food court, which is also worth a mention. It's a lovely indoor spot with charming decorations and an array of food and drink.
We stopped off for a bite to eat, and I was pleasantly surprised. I often find the food at these sorts of things is overpriced and underwhelming, but everything we tried - cheesy potato bites, a plant-based bratwurst, vanilla and apple crumble, and a Baileys hot chocolate - was delicious and filling.
The water show finale outside the mansion was a fantastic way to end the trail. It was dazzling and captivating - I could've watched it all night.
Don't come to the light trail expecting to see the animals; they're all tucked away in their enclosures, undisturbed by the lights. Tickets include entry to the park from 2pm, so that's your chance to see the park's rare and endangered species before the sun goes down.
Port Lympne has long been, in my opinion, one of Kent's best attractions, and I'm pleased to say the latest string to its bow does not disappoint; I hope it returns next year with even more innovative illuminations.
Port Lympne Illuminated is open from Friday, November 28 to Saturday, January 3. Adult tickets start from £12 and child tickets start from £10. You can book online here.
The Santa's Grotto will be open until Tuesday, December 23 and tickets cost £22 per child.