12/11/2025
In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast I meet up with Jay Silverman at GoMart Ballpark, home of the Charleston Charleston Dirty Birds, to walk through Light the Night. Jay breaks down how a local crew started hanging lights back in September and spent about ten weeks turning the park into a walk-through holiday show with around 2.5 million bulbs split into four main sections. There is a skating village, fire pits, mini golf, a small carnival, and plenty of space to explore on a basic ticket.
I ask about how families can visit and Jay explains you can keep it simple with general admission or an all-inclusive experience with rides and extras. Guests can roast s’mores, watch local skaters, and grab food that ranges from hot chocolate and treats to turkey and ham meals for groups. Businesses can book suites, tent parties, or the Victory Club for company outings with all-you-can-eat options.
What stands out most to me is how intentional Jay is with this year’s design. He focuses on flow, clears out clutter, and adds a giant lighted bulb tunnel as a centerpiece so people can slow down and enjoy the scene. He wants each section to feel connected, so people move through the park and take in the details instead of rushing past them.
Jay’s passion for creating experiences that bring the community together really comes through. Light the Night is more than a display; it’s a way for families, friends, and coworkers to make memories in the heart of Charleston. The event has grown into a holiday tradition that supports local workers, attracts visitors, and keeps the ballpark active beyond baseball season. It shows how local creativity and collaboration can light up the Kanawha Valley in more ways than one.
