ASHFORD HOLLOW, N.Y. — Griffis Sculpture Park, an open-air art sanctuary, illuminates the night sky for multiple weekends each autumn.

With the help of a grant from the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation, park visitors found a more culturally enriching experience this year, park officials noted.

For the last 12 years, the Night Lights event transforms the park’s sculptures and landscapes into a nighttime spectacle. The seasonal event invites guests to explore the park under the glow of vibrant lights, casting new dimensions on the 250-plus sculptures and the natural environment surrounding them.

A $4,000 grant from CRCF’s Visual Arts Alliance Endowment Fund enabled Night Lights organizers to bolster the event by hiring local artists and performers each night, bringing new layers of creativity to the series.

“We are very excited to feature a diverse array of artists each evening,” said Nila Griffis, executive director of Griffis Sculpture Park. “Our visitors will discover the artists on their walk through the lights. It will provide an up-close experience with the arts and also add to the adventure of attending Night Lights.”

The event has become a favorite in the region, attracting visitors of all ages eager to witness the park’s transformation under the stars. The talents of local musicians, painters, storytellers, LED hoopers, instrumentalists, poets and more aim to make this year’s Night Lights more captivating than ever.

“Night Lights at Griffis Sculpture Park is a special community event that blends art, nature and creativity in a unique way,” said Kirk Windus, CRCF executive director. “We are proud to contribute to its continued growth and success, and to foster the enrichment of arts and culture in our community.”