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Festival of Lights draws people from near and far
Locals and visitors enjoyed the first glimpses of the Festival of Lights last weekend via the Holiday Stroll
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
MT. PLEASANT — As the crisp autumn air gives way to the chill of winter, the Old Threshers Campground in Mt. Pleasant transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland each year. The Festival of Lights, a community-driven celebration that has grown in both size and spirit since its inception, opened with a festive stroll through the lights the weekend before Thanksgiving.
Visitors of all ages are invited to experience the magic in a variety of ways, from walking through the dazzling displays to enjoying a leisurely drive through the illuminations, or even hopping on a horse-drawn carriage ride. The festival, which has become a beloved tradition for many, continues to spread joy and holiday cheer across the region, bringing families together and creating lasting memories.
“This was my first time walking through the lights,” Winfield resident and regular Festival of Lights attendee Cathy Eaton shared. “I did the wagon ride last year and have been driving through it for at least 10 years. It’s a tradition for us!”
Eaton’s excitement mirrored the festive atmosphere that filled the air during the stroll. “It was exciting, and families were enjoying it,” she explained. “From ages 6 months to 75, everyone was having a great time. The laughter and joy were contagious!”
Visitors are treated to a breathtaking array of lights sponsored by community partners. Eaton shared her appreciation for all of the lights, but said the color-changing tunnel is definitely a favorite, “It’s just so mesmerizing.”
The festival, which has grown immensely since its inception, has become a staple of the community. Eaton remembers the first time she visited in 2013, when the event was smaller but equally charming.
Eaton believes the festival has a lasting impact on the local community. “It warms your soul,” she said, “and I love being here in Mt. Pleasant. It brings people together, and I think it’s something that truly adds to the spirit of the season.”
“It’s fantastic how it’s grown over the years,” she said. “It really brings people together, and people from outside of town get to come and see the beauty of our town.”
Ann Schwartz, who traveled to Mt. Pleasant from Marion for the stroll this year, echoed similar sentiments. She said made the trip to the Festival of Lights stroll last weekend because her family in the area couldn’t stop talking about how much they enjoy the experience.
“We live in Marion, but I was born and raised in St. Paul, Iowa,” Schwartz said. “We’ve gone to the Ghost Train on the old Thrasher grounds nearly every year since moving to Marion. I love going back home to do things with family.”
Schwartz is not alone in her willingness to travel to see this festive display, either.
“We keep track of license plates,” Festival of Lights Volunteer Melinda Huisinga said. “Last year, we had 74 Iowa counties and 34 states represented that went through between Thanksgiving and New Year's.”
For Schwartz, the atmosphere of the stroll was especially memorable. “It was laid back and peaceful,” she said. “We could go at our own pace and enjoy the displays for as long as we wanted. I played Christmas music on my phone, and we sang along as we walked through.”
When asked about her favorite light display, Schwartz’s response was heartfelt. “My favorite was the Nativity scene. I feel like we see it less and less these days. It’s important to remember the real meaning of Christmas.” She added that while the Nativity was her favorite, she loved all the displays, which showcased a wide variety of holiday themes, from sparkling snowflakes to whimsical animals.
Schwartz says favorite part of the stroll through the lights was visiting the candlelit log village where she and her family enjoyed cookies and apple cider around a fire.
“In this world, we don’t get many chances to stop and enjoy time with family and friends like that,” she said.
Though this was Schwartz’s first year attending, she plans to make it an annual tradition and plans to come back again this season to drive through the displays which will be open Nov. 30-Dec. 31 from 5:30-9 p.m.
For others thinking of taking a drive through the display or attending the stroll next year, Schwartz encourages them to take their time and enjoy the beauty of the displays.
“I can’t imagine the amount of time and effort the Mt. Pleasant community puts into this event,” Schwartz said. “It’s truly an amazing thing.”
The Festival of Lights certainly is a labor of love for the Mt. Pleasant community. Volunteers work tirelessly to set up the hundreds of light displays that adorn the campground. According to Huisinga it takes many dozen volunteers to not only put the displays up, but also check the lights throughout the season, take money as vehicles come through, and help as elves in Santa’s house.
As Eaton and Schwartz both pointed out, the festival has become much more than just a display of lights; it’s a gathering place where memories are made, and the true spirit of Christmas shines bright.
For Eaton, the Festival of Lights holds a special place in her heart. “I’d recommend it to everyone. Whether you’re walking through, driving through, or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride, it’s an uplifting experience,” she said. “The Christmas spirit is alive here.”
Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll through the glowing displays, experience the lights from the comfort of your car, or make new memories with loved ones, the Festival of Lights in Mt. Pleasant promises to offer something for everyone. The beauty and magic of the holiday season come alive here, creating a sense of community and joy that will surely keep visitors coming back for years to come.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
