MILWAUKEE -- It's opening weekend at the China Lights Lantern Festival in Hales Corners. Last year, some attendees called parking was a nightmare, but efforts are in place to make it all run more smoothly this year.
- PHOTOS: China Lights 2017
On a busy night, China Lights draws 8,000 people for a peak into the sights and sounds of Chinese culture.
"Love all the lights and the music is beautiful," Sue Roman said.
The magical experience with over 2,000 individual light displays has Roman and her family back for more. They attended last year hoping for just one change.
"Parking was not fun, we had to stand in line for a long time and it took a long time, so we're wondering if it's any different this year, but now it looks like we're walking," she said.
Event organizers admit the event's popularity comes with traffic challenges.
"It's patience… I think everyone knows this is a good thing for the park system," said Botanical Gardens Director Shirley Walczak.
Walczak said they made a number of adjustments this year. Crews added an extra lot, shuttle service and temporary no parking signs along neighborhoods that used to attract attendees like Ralph Trees.
"Last year I parked right along the street,” said Trees.
Gene Hecker said the only drag is a ten minute walk from a majority of the lots.
"We could always use the exercise," said Hecker
This event runs Tuesday-Sunday nights for the next month.
