The gift that keeps on giving

November 20, 2009 by Jennifer Miller 

Sunset Park’s holiday display lights up lives of community

In a city that is known for its spectacular neon lights, The Gift of Lights display at Sunset Park doesn’t disappoint.

This magical experience is memorable and uplifting. The lighting extravaganza has more than 400 animated and sparkling displays that you can experience in the convenience and warmth of your car.

Driving through the many arches and tunnels evokes Christmas nostalgia and you can’t help but feel the joy of the season upon us. Participants can tune into holiday music on an in-park-only radio channel while seeing all the magnificent displays. You can also hear echoes of boisterous and joyous voices singing along with the familiar carols that set the mood for the holidays.

The display of lights is a celebration of many customs, cultures and observances.

Traditions, the meaning of the holidays and observances, are all highlighted along the way.

“I was so happy to see the “Feliz Navidad” display,” said James Gonzales, who brought his family there for the first time. “I really appreciate the thought behind the whole event.”

In the beginning, you are welcomed by friendly faces of the boy and girl scouts, who man the “Hot Cocoa Corner” – you need some warm fluid to keep you toasty.

This year, The Gift of Lights continues with its eco-friendly theme with the infusion of the latest generation LED lighting, saving 90 percent more energy than old-fashioned incandescent lights.

The hours are 5-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5-10 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Thanksgiving. The Gift of Lights display will run until Jan. 3.

Partial proceeds from the event benefit the Clark County Department of Parks Recreation’s future special events.

The Gift of Lights proves each year to be more than just a simple display of illumination. Through the collaborative efforts of so many in the community, it helps the Las Vegas community members know it’s time to celebrate the holidays.

U.S. Bank president Lori Siren said, “We are just so proud to be a part of an event like this.”

The Gift of Lights was named one of the top 10 holiday events in all of North America by AOL/MSN and CitySearch.com.

The Gift of Lights: giftoflights.com