While some elves believe the best way to spread holiday cheer is by singing loudly for all to hear, folks in Danville, Virginia believe decorating one of the oldest civic-owned parks with thousands of lights is the best. For seven years, the Community Holiday Light Show has been the center of yuletide celebrations and traditions for residents in Southside VA—whisking visitors away to a fantastical wonderland of lights. The drive-through light show features displays built by local families, organizations, and businesses—not to mention the crafts, refreshments, and complimentary photos with Santa Claus that visitors can take part in after the show inside Children’s Village. Not only has the light show sparked new traditions and holiday memories, it has also contributed over $68,000 to civic organizations, volunteer groups, and local non-profits. The 15-day event is open nightly to the public. A portion of the gate fees is donated to the volunteer groups working the show that night while another portion is turned into prize money and donated to local nonprofits courtesy of the display that is voted as best in show by the public. For just $10, families, friends, and neighbors are swept away to a magical winter wonderland of lights and then to Children’s Village for photos, hot chocolate, and crafts—all while supporting the community. Nothing is more magical than a holiday season of giving!
