Canton’s Holiday Lights: A 25-Year Tradition Shines Brightly
As the holiday season approaches, the city of Canton is gearing up for a spectacular celebration that marks the 25th anniversary of its beloved holiday lights display in Stadium Park. From Thanksgiving through early January, visitors can experience a magical drive-through experience featuring over 50 dazzling displays, all created in-house by the dedicated Canton Parks and Recreation maintenance team, led by Todd Davis.
The annual tradition began in 1999 with a modest setup featuring just four lighted Japanese maple trees and a decorated pole outside the Canton Garden Center. Todd Davis, then a general maintenance specialist, envisioned this festive display as a way to attract visitors during the winter months when the parks were often overlooked. His idea was met with enthusiasm from the community, prompting the expansion of the displays over the years. Today, the event showcases a stunning array of holiday decorations, with plans for a 30% increase in displays in the future, as well as additional decorations in Monument Park and landscape island throughout the area.
The lights illuminate Stadium Park every evening from 5:00PM to 11PM, allowing families to enjoy the festive spirit from the comfort of their cars. The best starting point for visitors is 1615 Stadium Park Dr, Canton, Ohio 44718, with entrances available from 12th St NW or Fulton Road NW. Admission is free, making it an accessible option for everyone looking to celebrate the season.
This year’s display is particularly special, as it coincides with the Canton Garden Clubs 34th annual Holly Pine Lane Event. Running from 10:00AM to 8PM, this enchanting indoor experience features beautifully decorated Christmas trees inspired by classic carols, a gift shop, and a children’s scavenger hunt. The Holly Pine Lane event adds another layer of holiday cheer, with activities available for families to enjoy together.
A ceremonial lighting event, known as the Holiday Light Up in the Park, will take place on the first evening of the display, featuring live music from the Summit Arts Academy Choir, hot chocolate, cookies, and a special visit from Santa Claus. The community gathering not only marks the start of the holiday season but also highlights the strong spirit of togetherness that Canton is known for.
Despite the hiatus in 2020 due to the pandemic, the Canton holiday lights have returned with a larger and more vibrant display than ever. The Parks and Recreation Department, which has created nearly all the displays since 2002, operates on a modest budget of less than $7,000 saving the city over $1 million in potential cost for outsourcing. This year, two new displays have been introduced, designed creatively by Davis himself, although details about their specific themes remain under wraps to surprise visitors.
In response to past incidents of vandalism that resulted in significant damages, Canton has implemented enhanced security measures this year, including surveillance cameras and increased police patrols. These efforts aim to ensure that the holiday lights remain a safe and joyful experience for all.
As Canton embraces this cherished holiday tradition, the community can look forward to a season filled with light, joy, and cherished memories, celebrating the magic of the holidays in style. The holiday lights display stands as a testament to the creativity and dedication of the Canton Parks and Recreation team and the community’s love for this festive celebration.
Sources: