The first full weekend of lights kicks off tonight and Saturday from 6-8 p.m. Over a dozen local businesses, organizations, and families have contributed to this year’s campsite displays (including Around Ptown!).
The 4th annual Light Up the Park officially opened after last week’s Lighted Christmas Parade, but not all displays were ready to go. Miles Truck & Trailer Works LLC, winning float of the parade, as well as other entries have since been set up.
Also new this year is a cop car, fire truck, and an ambulance with a gingerbread man thanks to a donation by Larry Vos of Morrison, who has retired from his annual Christmas extravaganza of lights. “It was an honor to bring joy to so many over the past 55 years by lighting up your holidays with my displays,” he shared on social media before detailing where each of his displays went, including Prophetstown.
Light Up the Park was previously organized by Prophetstown First Responders, but now there’s a volunteer committee consisting of Tony & Jamie Wade, Todd & Nichole Murphy, Joe & Tracy Pratt, Bruce & Jane Franks, and Aaron Sandrock. The event started in 2020 and continues to grow with more lights and participants each year.
All are invited to come out and drive around the campground to admire the displays. Bundle up the kids, turn on the Christmas music, and experience a sense of joy and wonder as you drive around the park to see each creative and dazzling display.
There is also a fun and competitive element, with all visitors encouraged to vote for their favorite displays. The top 3 displays out of the 15 in total will get a cash reward!
The displays will be lit up from 6-8 p.m. every Friday and Saturday until Christmas. Admission is by donation, with all proceeds going towards the Prophetstown-Lyndon Food Pantry or back into Light Up the Park, a non-profit. Follow their Facebook page for updates and more!
