Welcome to the 2nd Annual Lake Lights & Holiday Nights! This festive community event began in 2024, sparked by an idea from local resident Julianna Carlson. What started with a focus on our wonderful local businesses is growing into a community-wide celebration. We are able to make this event happen with support and collaboration with Project 412 and the Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Our Mission: Light Up the Lakes!

Our goal is twofold, and it's all about community spirit:

1. Bring on the Holiday Cheer! We want to deck the halls (and homes , and storefronts!) with as many lights and displays as possible. It's about bringing back the cozy nostalgia of holiday light tours, sparking a little friendly competition, and uniting our community in festive cheer.

2. Become a Winter Destination! We want to shine a bright light on Detroit Lakes during the winter months. By supporting our local businesses and growing our tax base, we can make our home the place to be for winter fun. This event perfectly complements other beloved traditions like Polar Fest, filling the seasonal gap and keeping the holiday magic alive.

How It Works

We have two main competitions, judged separately, for businesses and residents:

• Deck the Storefronts, a friendly competition for local businesses and an opportunity to share holiday events!

• Light Up Your Home, a fun filled opportunity to be the cheer up anyone who passed by!

Three awards are up for grabs in each category, complete with recognition and a small prize. Best of all? Entry is completely FREE! We want to encourage maximum participation and inspire everyone to join the fun.

This event is focused on Detroit Lakes and its surrounding community, and we truly hope it takes on a life of its own, becoming a cherished tradition for years to come.

2025 Lake Lights & Holiday Nights Contest!

2024 Lake Lights & Holiday Nights Contest!