Lightopia Brightens Everyone's Holidays In City Of Hillsboro

Hillsboro OR

23 December, 2021

9:54 PM

Description

Press release from the City of Hillsboro: December 22, 2021 Once again, Hillsboro invites you to drive through Lightopia -- an Illuminated Journey. Building on 2020's award-winning, drive-through light show, this year's COVID-safe, family friendly-event features even more dazzling displays spread out over a full half mile in the Gordon Faber Recreation Complex. So far this season, more than 10,000 vehicles have driven through the festive display and feedback has been positive. "It really puts people in the holiday spirit," says Hillsboro Parks and Rec employee Carrie Jimenez, as she waves cars through the entry point. Even though she is officially working, Jimenez can't help but join in the celebration too. "After being virtual for so long it's just great to safely reconnect with people face-to-face again." Five-year-old Macy is also excited, even though the first-time participant isn't quite sure what to expect. "I don't know what I'm going to see but I think it's going to be lots of lights," she says from the back her parents' car. Emmitt, her nine-month-old brother seems to share her enthusiasm as do her parents Makala and Jacob. "This is the best part of the holiday so far," says Makala. The event is free, but participants must reserve tickets first (see reservation information below). Patrons are also encouraged to donate non-perishable, unexpired food items and/or unwrapped toys. The food will go to community food pantries at the Hillsboro School District, the Elks Lodge, and Impact NW. Toys are taken to the Hillsboro Fire Department's Random Acts Inc Toy & Joy drive. So far, response to the food and toy drive has been "phenomenal," according to Stacy Ahlberg, Special Events Supervisor. "We fill a large trailer with donations just about every night. The response from the Community has just been overwhelmingly positive." Lightopia runs every night through December 31. It will be closed on Christmas Day, December 25. Hours are: 5pm to 9pm Sunday through Thursday 5pm to 10pm Friday and Saturday Find out more and reserve a spot. This press release was produced by the City of Hillsboro. The views expressed here are the author's own.