Walkers, runners brave cold for Threshers lights

MT. PLEASANT — Bundled-up visitors braved the bitter cold over the weekend for the Old Threshers holiday light park display. While the mile-and-a-half long path is a drive-thru display from this Wednesday until New Year’s Eve, the group opens it up for foot traffic the weekend before Thanksgiving.

“It’s a great way to see the lights, to hear the trees that are programmed with music, to see the new tunnel,” Old Threshers Board Member Melinda Huisinga said. “The log village is open, the trolleys are open … it’s a great way to use our campground.”

With at least 147 displays, Old Threshers Chief Executive Officer Terry McWilliams said the display was up in colder conditions than normal.

“Last year it was beautiful,” he said. “So we’ll see how many folks come out to brave it.”

And brave it they did. Those on the walking trail Saturday night said they wouldn’t miss it for the world.

“I have something in memory of my husband,” said Pat Richenberger "He passed away in 2013, so I got a display for him and they have it out here every year. That’s one thing, but I just enjoy looking at all of the displays … by walking through, I think you can see all of the displays better.“

Jennie Adkins said her family drove through the display every year, but chose to walk it for the first time Saturday night.

“I just think it’s fun seeing them up close, and you can always drive through Christmas lights, but you don’t always get to get this close,” she said. “We usually come through after Christmas Eve service.”

The event also generates interest for local features like an indoor (heated) Santa house, the trolley service and the historical log cabin village.

“We brought in more people knowing that last year was a success and we knew that there would be people down here,” Historical Village Volunteer Melanie Carlson said. “And with the trolley stop very close to here, people can see us a lot easier.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com