CLINTON, Iowa – This holiday season the Symphony of Lights holiday light display at Eagle Point Park here marks its 30th anniversary, shining brighter than ever to honor a legacy that began in 1996.
Symphony of Lights features more than 500,000 lights in about 250 light displays throughout Eagle Point Park on Clinton’s north edge. This season will feature new displays, thanks to a recent $250,000 gift.
The display will be open from Thanksgiving night, Nov. 27, and remain on display through Tuesday, Dec. 30. It will be open on weekday nights from 6-9 p.m., and weekend nights from 5-9 p.m. Admission is $10 per vehicle with up to 10 people in the vehicle; and $2 per person for larger vehicles.
Here are some of the Symphony of Lights’ special events:
- Family Walk Night: Wednesday, Nov. 26, 5:30-8:30 p.m. – Stroll through the dazzling displays, meet Santa, and enjoy local food vendors; $5 per person; ages 5 and under are free.
- Craft & Vendor Fair: Saturday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Shop for unique gifts and holiday treats at Eagle Point Lodge.
- Santa’s Sundays: Sunday, Dec. 7, 14, and 21, 5:30-8:30 p.m. – Bring the kids for a magical visit with Santa Claus.
Updates can be found on the Symphony of Lights Facebook page.
For three decades, this volunteer-driven celebration has grown into one of the region’s most beloved winter attractions, drawing thousands each year to Clinton. The event welcomes between 5,000 and 6,000 cars annually, as families and visitors from across the region make the drive through dazzling displays.
Sustaining support
“Funds raised through admissions and donations support the ongoing growth and innovation of the Symphony of Lights,” Sue Watkins, Symphony of Lights board member, said in a news release Tuesday, Nov. 18. “In addition, these proceeds help provide scholarships for local students, and a portion of annual profits is donated to the City of Clinton’s Parks Department for improvements at Eagle Point Park — ensuring the event’s positive impact lasts well beyond the holiday season.”
This year’s 30th anniversary milestone features a transformative gift from Lawrence and Carol Bay. Their $250,000 donation has funded over a dozen new displays and enhancements throughout the park.
The Bays’ generosity is rooted in a deep, personal connection. For more than 20 years, they attended the Symphony of Lights together, inspired by the dedication of its volunteers and the joy it brought to families across Clinton and beyond, according to Symphony of Lights leaders.
“The Bays’ support is more than financial; it’s a testament to the power of community and the spirit of giving,” said Louise Laurent, board member. “Their dedicated funding will allow the Symphony of Lights to expand, innovate, and remain a highlight of the holiday season for years to come.”
