'Light Up UCF' returns for 2017 this weekend

ORLANDO, Fla – With Halloween in the rearview mirror, and Thanksgiving straight ahead, it's impossible to ignore the fact that Christmas will be here before we know it.

One of Central Florida's most popular holiday events, "Light Up UCF," returns to Orlando's hometown university Saturday, and will be open every night between Nov. 17 and Dec. 31.

Celebrating it's tenth year of operation, "Light Up UCF" is an attraction that brings a number of holiday-themed events to the area in order to create an intricately decorated, winter wonderland to the campus of the University of Central Florida. 

Nightly ticketed offerings include ice skating, "The Arctic Glide Ice Slide," a Ferris wheel, "The Winter Whirl" and Light Up Lane with photos with Santa.

Many events are offered for free at the attraction as well, such as "the Holiday Film Festival, shown on a giant two-story screen and the exciting new and improved Holiday Light Show with new songs and more lights choreographed to seasonal musical selections and falling snow."

Dec. 16 from 5 to 10 p.m. will be "Light Up UCF's" "Holiday Market Under the Stars," which features local artisans and small businesses with shops set up to give you the opportunity to find unique gifts for everyone left on your shopping list.

Tickets for "Light Up UCF" vary according to activities chosen, with discounts offered to UCF students, groups of 10 or more and those purchasing multiple rides. More information on the holiday attractions offerings can be found here. Tickets can be purchased here.