EVANSVILLE, Indiana – The holiday season officially began this morning at Garvin Park as volunteers from local unions and Easterseals worked together to unload a record‑breaking 95 light displays for Ritzy’s Fantasy of Lights. The effort marks the largest single‑day setup in the 33‑year history of the beloved community event.
Community effort fuels holiday tradition
More than a dozen volunteers, many of whom are members of local labor unions, arrived early to help transport the displays from trucks to the park. Easterseals staff coordinated the effort, ensuring each display was carefully positioned along the park’s pathways.
“I would explain it as one magical mile of light displays,” said Easterseals Director Sara McKeehan. “We have 97 displays this year that are from community partners, businesses in the community versus families who have a display in memory of a loved one who just want to support Easter Seals.”
Fundraising for a vital cause
Ritzy’s Fantasy of Lights is more than a visual spectacle; it is a major fundraiser for Easterseals, an organization that provides services and support to people with disabilities throughout the region. McKeehan noted that the event now raises over two hundred thousand dollars each year, a figure that helps sustain programs ranging from therapy services to adaptive equipment grants.
“It’s our biggest event and raises over two hundred thousand dollars each year, which is fantastic,” McKeehan added, emphasizing the direct impact on families and individuals who rely on Easterseals’ assistance.
Schedule and upcoming festivities
Construction crews will continue to install the lights through the Halloween weekend, ensuring every display is safely mounted and illuminated. The lights are slated to switch on for opening night on Thanksgiving, providing a festive backdrop for families and visitors to enjoy throughout the holiday season.
Local businesses have also contributed displays, showcasing the partnership between the private sector and community organizations. These contributions reflect a shared commitment to supporting families and individuals with disabilities while celebrating the spirit of the holidays.
How you can get involved
Organizers encourage residents to attend the lighting ceremony on Thanksgiving and to consider volunteering for future setup days. Additional opportunities to support Easterseals include donating directly to the organization or participating in other community fundraisers throughout the year.
“Our community’s generosity makes this event possible year after year,” McKeehan said. “We look forward to welcoming neighbors, friends, and families to experience the magic of the lights and to support a cause that truly matters.”
Looking ahead
With the success of this year’s record setup, organizers are optimistic about expanding the event’s reach and impact in future seasons. The partnership between volunteers, businesses, and Easterseals demonstrates the power of collective effort to brighten both the streets of Evansville and the lives of those who need it most.
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
