The Community Holiday Light Show, which was held Dec. 7-23 at Ballou Park, marked another big year for giving back to the community, with $18,616 raised for gate workers and best-in-show display winners. That number was a 5.11 percent increase from a year ago.
The light show has been an annual event since 2014.
“We were so happy to celebrate the 10th year of the Community Holiday Light Show with everyone in 2023,” said Taylor Roberts, special events coordinator for the Parks and Recreation Department. “It’s because of everyone’s support that we’ve been able to donate proceeds back to the community year after year.”
Every year, a portion of the proceeds go to local charities or nonprofits as designated by organizations or groups that win “Best-in-Show” for their light displays. “Best in Show” winners are determined by the number of votes their display receives by the visiting public.
The following winners—along with their respective charities/non-profits—will receive a portion of proceeds:
- 1st – AMA Recycling - Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association.
- 2nd – Fraternal Order of Eagles Piedmont Aerie 4420 - Fraternal Order of Eagles Piedmont Aerie 4420.
- 3rd – Sacred Heart Catholic School - Sacred Heart Catholic School.
- 4th – St. Luke’s UMC - St. Luke’s Backpack Program.
- 5th – Kiwanis Club of Danville - Kiwanis Club of Danville.
- 6th – Central Boulevard Church of God Youth - Central Boulevard Church of God.
The 2023 light show welcomed more than 12,000 people; 3,371 cars; and 22 buses. The Children’s Village inside Ballou Recreation Center hosted more than 5,400 people. Those numbers were an increase from the 2022 show, which welcomed 11,200 people; 3,160 cars; and 21 buses. The Children’s Village inside Ballou Recreation Center hosted more than 5,000 people.
Those wishing to take part in the 2024 Community Holiday Light Show by building a display or volunteering to work the gates can contact Special Events at (434) 857-3384. There is no cost to enter a display.