IOWA CITY — For the fifth-straight year, Holiday Lights at the Lake returns to Iowa City.
The mile-long drive-through track of shining Christmas lights at West Overlook Campground is open to the public as of Nov. 26 and will run through the end of December.
“What started as a simple idea rooted in love, remembrance and the desire to support families during a time of life that’s most difficult moments has grown into a cherished community tradition that brings joy to thousands each holiday season,” said Holiday Lights co-chair Paula McCue.
Holiday Lights is open Sunday through Thursday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5-9:00 p.m. Visitors can purchase tickets either at the gate via cash or credit or online at eventbrite.com for an additional fee. Costs start at $10 per family car or van.
There will be select walk-through dates where visitors can choose to walk the track rather than drive through it on Dec. 3, Dec. 7, Dec. 10, Dec. 17, and Dec. 28., as well as the opportunity to see Santa and Mrs. Claus every Wednesday before Christmas.
A route map, directions to get to the Campground off the I-80 and I-380 exits, and other additional information can be found at holidaylightsatthelake.com.
About Holiday Lights at the Lake
Going on its fifth year, Holiday Lights at the Lake continues to be fueled by the local community through volunteer work, sponsorships, and donations.
The land in which Holiday Lights resides on is borrowed from the U.S. Army Corps as its on its campsite, and the event is 100 percent volunteer run. They don’t get paid for the work — serving the community with such an event is worth it.
“Everything that goes on is powered by people who care deeply about this mission,” McCue said. “They show up in the cold, the wind, the dark, the rain, and they believe in what we do out here.”
Holiday Lights is also funded through its 120-plus sponsors. Some of its biggest donors are Hills Bank, Edward Jones, State Farm, and Urban Acres among others, who all gave at least $3,000. Others such as KCRG and the Show You Care committee show their support by showcasing the event.
All proceeds will benefit The Bird House, Hospice Home of Johnson County.
“It’s really meant to just be a legacy fundraiser for The Bird House because the Bird House really fills a hole that was in our community prior to its opening, which is end of life care and just dignified end of life care,” said Holiday Lights co-chair Tyler Bird. “It lets family members be there for their loved one at the end of life.”
Those who wish to donate further can do so through the donation box at the end of the trail, at holidaylightsatthelake.com, or through thebirdhousejc.org.