Candy Cane Lane has become a must-see attraction of the Christmas season, wowing thousands of delighted visitors every year. For four magical weeks in December, a stretch of five blocks of decorated homes is transformed into a dazzling display of more than 500 plywood and Styrofoam characters, 20,000 to 30,000 lights, and 400 electrical cords and cables. The colorful light displays and unique decorations bring out the magic of the season for young and old alike. Christmas in West Frankfort is not complete without a ride or walk down Candy Cane Lane

Candy Cane lane was started in 1988 at one home by an art teacher, Tim Murphy, and his father, Leon Murphy. As with most things, it started off small with a few houses putting up some impressive light displays. The spirit spread to other residents and today more that five city blocks are now officially considered being on the lane. It is all done on a volunteer basis and there is no commercial or municipal sponsorship of any kind.

Visitors will find the entrance to Candy Cane Lane has moved to 1100 East Cleveland Street, known as the West Frankfort Community Park.

Since the passing of Mr. Tim Murphy in 2021 his tradition is carried on by his close friends and the City of West Frankfort . A Christmas drive thru exhibit with nearly 100 displays.  Featuring 30,000 plus Christmas lights, Christmas characters, Disney Characters, Music and more. You can drive thru or walk around the park to view his spectacular displays, and is funded by donations only.  It is open from the day after Thanksgiving until the day after Christmas.  You can visit the Facebook public group “Candy Cane Lane” for more information on special events happening throughout the Christmas season.

The best way to enjoy Candy Cane Lane is to walk it if at all possible. It can get very congested at peak times such as on weekend nights just prior the Christmas and you can end up spending a lot of time in traffic.