There is still time for a summer road trip, especially one that ends with a lawn chair, a September evening and a reason to look up. For Galion residents, that trip can lead to familiar territory. Mohican State Park Lodge will host “Remember, Lights in the Sky” on Saturday, September 12, with afternoon activities leading into an illuminated drone show at 9:00 PM.
The lodge is one of nine across Ohio participating in the synchronized statewide event organized by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Great Ohio Lodges. For local families, Mohican offers the closest option, making it possible to spend an afternoon away and return home that night.
A Familiar Place With Something New Overhead
The evening brings together two observances: America’s 250th anniversary and a solemn patriotic tribute marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, culminating at 9:00 PM when illuminated drones will take to the sky at all nine participating lodges. Organizers describe the show as a visual tribute to service, sacrifice and the nation’s enduring spirit. That gives this particular summer outing a different character. There will be time for food, music and an afternoon outdoors, followed by a shared moment of remembrance.
“Whether you’re joining us for the drone show, exploring the parks, or enjoying the many activities offered at our lodges, we hope you take this opportunity to experience the very best of Ohio State Parks,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said.
Make an Afternoon of It
Mohican’s Saturday schedule starts at 3:00 PM with a car show in the lower parking lot. A food truck will be there during the same hours, while Stomping Herd Kettle Corn will be on the patio. All three are scheduled through 7:00 PM. DJ David King takes over on the patio from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with the drone show scheduled for 9:00 PM. The lodge says scheduled events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. Plan separately for food purchases. View Mohican’s event schedule.
Visitors who want a longer outing can arrive earlier and explore the area’s trails before heading to the lodge. It is an opportunity to give a familiar local destination a little more time than a quick stop allows. Explore Mohican’s hiking options.
Pack a Chair and Stay Until Dark
Bring lawn chairs or blankets for the designated viewing areas. The lodge notes that its main lawns are open to the public, although some outdoor spaces and patios are reserved for private events during the performance. Check the event page before leaving for updates. Mohican Lodge is at 1098 Ashland County Road 3006, Perrysville. Use the lodge itself as your navigation destination when planning the trip. Driving information is available here.
For Galion, the appeal is close to home: a familiar drive, an afternoon with room to wander and, at 9:00 PM, something new in the sky.