When our kids were small, one of their favorite things to do was drive around during the holidays and check out over-the-top light displays.

They would have loved visiting Santa’s Magical Village in Florence.

Organizers say it’s almost like a Christmas theme park in your own backyard. It’s located at the Eastern Carolina Agricultural Fairgrounds in Florence, just off Interstate 95.

Activities include the mile-long festival of lights, dazzling holiday displays, a petting zoo and amusement rides. There are horse-drawn wagon rides and a live Nativity scene. And, of course, kids get the chance to meet Santa in his house.

The park is open through Jan. 2, and the charge is $7 per car.