Lights of Liberty bring holiday cheer to North Liberty

NORTH LIBERTY, Ind. (WNDU) - A new holiday light display will open to the public this upcoming Friday, offering families a free Christmas experience with decorated trails and activities.

The Lights of Liberty event at North Liberty Elementary School will run every Friday and Saturday for three weeks starting Black Friday. More than 100 people attended a preview event this weekend.

The display features a half-mile walk decorated with icicle lights and holiday outdoor decorations. Visitors can also visit Santa’s Village, where children can write letters to Santa Claus and receive treats.

“It looks super cool,” said South Bend resident Liam Baily. “And every time I’d go in the tunnel, I’d just like look back and like, it looks super cool.”

Students from three local schools volunteered at the preview and will help visitors throughout the three-week run.

“And some of us held a sign for the volunteers to hold,” said Amelia Jackson, a volunteer and Urey Middle School student. “And then we gave out some nice snacks that we got to have after.”

South Bend resident Brittney Baily said the community effort made the event special for families.

“The fact that so many volunteers came together to make this happen,” Baily said. “We have a large family. So, the fact that there’s something like this for us to do for free; to experience the magic of Christmas, there’s nothing like it.”

Sara Williams, North Liberty Area Chamber of Commerce president, said organizers wanted to create a memorable experience for Michiana families.

“We wanted to make it feel like one of those cheesy Hallmark movies at Christmas time,” Williams said. “And let the families in our area, all of Michiana, not just North Liberty, but let them have a place that becomes a family tradition to come to.”

The annual event started last year. Williams said she expects higher turnout this year and hopes to attract visitors from outside the area.

After the light walk, families can take a shuttle to a food truck area where they can sit and eat while staying warm.