That Christmassy feeling is back in the air at Dunham Massey as the spectacular illuminated, musical trail throws its doors open to an eager public.
Tickets for this splendid festive fixture are often hard to come by, especially as the big day approaches and even Yuletide grouches get into the tinselly swing - but this year, with tickets selling like hot mince pies, the fun has gone into extra time, with the popular lights show open until January 2.
From session times and prices, to the food and fairground, we've put together a guide on what you need to know if you're taking a trip to the Dunham Massey light trail this year.
READ MORE: What to expect at RHS Bridgewater's Glow light trail
What's on the trail?
The trail wends its way through Dunham's fabulous park and gardens, once you have negotiated the courtyard area wth its tasteful funfair rides and wealth of food and drink stalls.
With a Christmas soundtrack that goes from cheesy to camp to hauntingly beautiful, the lights show just gets better every year - and the use of the splendid old hall as a screen for the projection of a Christmas is a highlight.
The giant sparkling deer sculptures are big favourites with the kids, as is, of course, the appearance of Father Christmas himself halfway round the trail.
The fire garden is achingly beautiful, and the new rose garden installation is another sensory delight.
Is there anything else to do?
With a photo and video opportunity round every corner, make sure your camera is well charged, and the kids in a smiley mood - while you will want to linger a while at the lights show at the old hall.
The firepits, where you can buy a chunk of marshmallow in a stick for toasting, and sip a hot coffee it mulled wine as a welcome break from the trek, is a popular feature every year.
Can the kids meet Santa?
Of course! What winter wonderland would be complete with the jolly old elf himself? Again there is something of a traditional Victorian feel to this St Nick, in keeping with the stately splendour of the surroundings.
And the fact that you happen upon him in the middle of the woods, in dazzling blaze of light as you emerge from the darkness, just adds to the magic.
But even Father Christmas knows he has to keep a social distance, so there is no grotto and photo ops are limited to Santa standing on the other side of a strategically-placed fence.
What time are the trails?
On selected dates, the gates are open at 4.30pm and the last trails starts at 8.15pm, with pre-booking required - and the venue closes at 10pm. A new trail starts every 15 minutes, to avoid congestion.
How much are tickets and parking?
Tickets start at £21 for adults and £13.50 for children, with a family ticket (two adults and two children) ranging from £45.99 to £66. There is free entry for carers and children aged two and under.
Parking is £8 per car, but is free for National Trust members when booked in advance.
Tickets have almost entirely sold out for the December dates, but there is limited availability for January 1 and 2.
For more details check the website here
How long does it last?
If you plan on making use of the food stalls and funfair, as well as lingering at various points on the trail to soak up the ambience, get those memorable pics, or sup a mulled wine, allow roughly two hours.
What rides are there and how much do they cost?
The Victorian carnival feel to the funfair rides - a helter-skelter, carousel and rope boat swings, is in keeping with the traditional feel of the whole event.
But they are pricey - £2.50 a throw on the carousel, with every ride accessed by buying tokens at a nearby hut.
Food and drink stalls and prices
Basic street food, from Cypriot Gyros and kebabs (£7.50) , to burgers and hot dogs from nearby Little Heath Farm, and wood-fired pizza (£9.50), as well as the obligatory mulled wine and cider (£5.50) a go, plus hot chocolate £3.50 for the luxury version.
The kids won;t want to miss the marshmallow toasting, at £1.50 a chunk and there's also hot churros with chocolate sauce and a hot crepe and waffle stand in the woods.
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