Retailers aren't the only ones staying busy this Black Friday. From deals and steals to lights and decorations, La Crosse is getting into the holiday spirit. Tonight the annual Rotary lights display is illuminating Riverside Park.
It's been a La Crosse tradition since 1995. Every year, lights shine from Black Friday until New Year's Eve to raise awareness of hunger. Around 130,000 people come annually including the Walkowicz's.
"We've been coming down for thirteen years and with the kids a good five or six," the mother tells News 8 Now.
The tradition started when a fellow Rotarian named Duane Moore saw a similar set up in Oklahoma. He decided to bring the idea to La Crosse. Rotary Lights President Pat Stephens has been involved with lighting up the park since then.
"It's therapy for the community. People come down two-three times which we absolutely love," Stephens says.
Danielle Wissink and her friends come to Rotary lights each year to reconnect.
"We both live in Minneapolis but we're busy. We can always count on getting together here," Wissink explains.
It's the display that keeps bringing them back.
"I think we just love the lights and the holiday spirit and all the music. It's gorgeous," Wissink adds.
Parkgoers can see the decorations by walking or driving around Riverside Park. But it's about more than just entertaining the community. Rotary encourages everyone to donate food or make monetary donations to fight hunger for those in need. Its goal this year is to top 5.3 million food items collected!
The lights will be on display most nights from 5pm-10pm. Santa will also be there every night until December 23.
Story Source: News8000 or CLICK HERE
Image Source: (Google Images) Just search for Lacrosse WI Rotary Lights
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