BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — After more than 36 hours of waiting, holiday travelers are breathing a sigh of relief tonight now that California Highway Patrol officials have reopened the I-5 freeway in both directions.

CHP officials said that chains are required if you do decide to use the Fraizer Mountain Park exit off of the freeway and snow play areas are closed due to large snow drifts in mountain communities.

The mess all unfolded late Wednesday night when heavy snow hit the Grapevine and CHP and Caltrans officials shut down the I-5 to prevent accidents from happening.

Officials had to escort cars full of people who were stuck on the snow packed freeway and many people had to spend Christmas night in their cars.

However, many others also took to local gas stations to sleep as well during the closure that lasted more than two days.

CHP eventually began escorting traffic in both directions of the I-5 freeway before 11 a.m. Friday, restoring some holiday cheer for travelers.