Broken Arrow residents can look forward to a beloved seasonal tradition as Rhema Bible College prepares to light up its campus with more than 2 million LED Christmas lights. The display, which began in 1982 with roughly 60,000 lights, has grown into a multi‑million‑light showcase that blends secular holiday scenes with religious motifs, underscoring the college’s message that “Jesus is the light of the world.”
Rob Betts, community‑relations representative for Rhema, told 2 News Oklahoma that the 2024‑25 display features a refreshed color scheme and new attractions. “We’ve actually been doing the Christmas lights since 1982… This year we have over 2 million lights,” Betts said. He added that the college’s use of LED technology keeps costs manageable, allowing the event to remain free to the public while funding most expenses through concessions and ticket sales for the on‑site Christmas train.
The train attraction has been expanded with two additional cabooses, increasing capacity and shortening wait times. “We added some new cabooses — actually two new train cars added to it. So we’ve got even more capacity now, so the lines are gonna be shorter for that,” Betts explained. Visitors can purchase tickets for the train ride and snacks from vendors stationed around the grounds.
Long‑time local observer Nick Fernandez, who has watched the lights being installed since August, praised the early setup and the visual impact of the display. “It’s really amazing and mesmerizing… 2 million — it’s really something to see,” Fernandez said. He noted that the lights are visible even during daylight, creating a festive atmosphere that draws families, grandparents, and children in strollers each evening.
The lights officially switch on at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 25 and will remain illuminated nightly through Jan. 1. Admission is free, and visitors may either walk through the illuminated pathways or drive through at their own pace. Concessions and train tickets are available for purchase on site.
What’s next: After the lights are lit on Nov. 25, Rhema Bible College will host nightly viewing hours until the New Year’s Eve finale on Jan. 1. Residents are encouraged to plan visits early, especially if they wish to ride the expanded Christmas train, as lines are expected to be shorter but still busy during peak evenings.
Sources: kjrh.com
