The Tribune

ASHLAND, Ky. — A state travel agency has chosen a local holiday festival as a must see attraction.

Kentucky Travel Industry Association has selected Ashland’s Winter Wonderland of Lights as a part of its 2011 Winter/Holiday Top 10 Festivals and Events. This is the festival’s fourth year in being selected.

Organizers of events have to apply to be considered for the list.

“You have to send in information to show (the judges) how the public perceives your event,” Paula Mayo of the Ashland Alliance said.

Mayo said the panel looks for three criteria: how well attended an event is, is the event well received and if it is a family friendly event.

Mayo said the selection is recognition of a job well done and something fun during the rough economic times.

“(Families) don’t have to spend a dime to come here,” she said.

Tradition runs deep in this festival.

“With some families it’s a tradition,” Mayo said. “They come on a certain night every year. We see the same families every year and watch them grow up.”

Mayo also said it’s fun to see the second generation.

“The displays some saw when they were children, their kids are now seeing,” she said.

According to the website, Winter Wonderland of Lights has more than 50 light displays. The festival will begin November 14.