Leland In Lights

The fine folks running Leland’s Recreation Department have been working hard to keep programs going through some difficult circumstances this year, and they are finishing the year off in most magical manner. The Leland In Lights Holiday Display lights up each night this month for you and your loved ones to explore. We spoke to the Recreation department staff about how this year’s display will be extra special.

How long has the town been doing Leland In Lights?

Leland in Lights started in 2018 and has continued to grow each year, with this year being the largest and brightest yet.

Has it always been in Founders Park?

Yes, Leland in Lights has always been in Founders Park.

What can visitors expect from this year’s display?

Our hope with Leland in Lights is to bring a little holiday magic and joy to people of all ages. And for many, this is a unique way to create lasting memories (a couple actually got engaged in the candy cane forest display last year!).

We invite everyone to take a stroll through the candy cane forest, take a moment under the twinkling lights, or stop to hear the trees “sing” holiday songs. And because it is free, people are welcome to return as many times as they’d like during the event.

I understand you’ve added to it for this year, can you talk about that?

In addition to the dozens of displays from last year, the event will be expanded this year to feature even more animated displays provided by a grant through the Leland Tourism Development Authority.

How will this be different from previous years due to COVID?

To ensure we keep our community safe during the holidays, the annual Tree Lighting and Santa's Workshop will not take place this year. We encourage those attending to wear a mask and ask all that visit the lights to be respectful of others and maintain a six-foot distance while viewing the displays.

What are the hours? I’m assuming dark until…..

The lights will turn on at dusk every night starting November 30 and continuing until January 10.