It’s been a hive of activity at the Ashburton Domain this week as crews bustle away day and night to get Glow in the Park ready for the thousands of people expected to attend this weekend.

Now in its third year, the free family event will be the biggest and brightest yet, and Group Manager Compliance and Development, Jane Donaldson is encouraging locals to think about how they might get there.

“The State Highway is always busy during King’s Birthday weekend, and people travelling to Glow will add to the traffic, as we saw last year in Tinwald.”

“We’re hopeful that the more central location will make a big difference, but if you live within a few blocks of the event, we’d encourage you consider walking.”

“For those who do need to bring the car, please remember to schedule extra travel time, be patient and check our website for parking options.”

Off-street parking locations include the West Street Carpark, the old Polytech site next to Balmoral Hall, the old Council building on Havelock Street, the Robert Harris / Smiths City car park and EA Networks Centre.

Onsite parking is available for mobility card holders and can be accessed from the corner of Elizabeth and Grigg Streets.

Ms Donaldson says there is also plenty of on street parking available around the domain.

“However, please stay off the hospital’s grounds and be considerate to nearby residents when parking by leaving driveways unobstructed.”

This year’s event will feature more lighting displays, more amusement rides and a much larger food court, it also coincides with the 160th anniversary of the Ashburton Domain.

One aspect outside of organisers’ control is the weather. Last year, rain saw the cancellation of the Sunday evening session – but Ms Donaldson is hopeful that the people will be able to enjoy all three nights.

“The weather is looking pretty good at this stage, but if it does get really wet, people should check our Facebook page or the glow website for updates.”

More event information, including a venue map and parking locations can be found at glowinthepark.nz.