Griffith Park Light Show Opens

Millions of Christmas lights sparkled at the opening of the fourth annual Griffith Park Light Festival on Friday.

The annual nighttime show, which is free and runs for a month, celebrates Christmas--and Los Angeles--with light exhibits and vignettes along a mile section of Crystal Springs Drive in Griffith Park. Those wishing to savor the kaleidoscope of lights and festive holiday music by foot can follow a walking path that begins near the parking area at the L.A. Zoo.

Light displays featuring Santa Claus and the elves, reindeer and local landmarks such as Los Angeles International Airport are illuminated by 600,000 watts.

The L.A. Department of Water and Power and Department of Parks and Recreation are the primary sponsors. The Los Angeles Times is among a number of co-sponsors.

Griffith Park Light Festival

* When: Today through Dec. 26, 5-10:30 p.m.

* Location: 1-mile section of Crystal Springs Drive between the Los Angeles Zoo parking area and an archway of lights just past the Griffith Park ranger station.

* Driving directions: Exit Golden State Freeway (I-5) at Los Feliz. Go west on Los Feliz and turn right onto Crystal Springs Drive. The entrance to the light festival is on Crystal Springs.

* Walking directions: Park at the Los Angeles Zoo and walk south on Crystal Springs Drive.

* Information: Call (323) 913-4688, Ext. 8.