Yeah it's more enjoyable primarily because there are just less vehicles to get in the way.
I used to be traveling after dark quite often but no longer working second shift + side jobs it's more unusual now.
Unfortunately twisties at night though aren't nearly as fun since one "must" take them slower due to reduced visibility.
There just isn't enough time to react to critter traffic under those circumstances.
The EU may have corner turning headlamps but we don't.
As far as keeping things "light", just pre-select some good evening / nighttime driving tunes and crank'em.