The year was 1997 and a brand new event opened for the first time at Warm Beach Camp — The Lights of Christmas.

As December arrived, no one quite knew what to expect. The Camp had never done an event like this before. Would anyone come? The idea of a Christmas event at Warm Beach Camp was brand new to people. What was this “lights thing” that the Camp was doing? Boasting a half-million lights and open just 12 nights, the event drew 20,000 people that first year!

Now, 20 years later, the question isn’t will anyone come. The question always is, “How many people will attend?” Since The Lights of Christmas began, nearly one million people have attended! Today, this is the largest Christmas festival in the Pacific Northwest. And, for the fourth time, The Lights has been selected as one of the Top 100 Events (see page 38) in all of North America by the American Bus Association, the association of tour bus operators!

There are a few special features this year to help celebrate the 20th year. A new entrance archway with computer-controlled lighting animation will welcome guests. A new gift shop is opening this year in the Starry Night Coffee House to replace Harbor Lights Gifts. There is a new Gingerbread House that is a great backdrop for a photo of your family and friends. The décor is being updated in several locations, and don’t miss the 10-foot-tall elk standing on a hill!

This December, I hope you have an opportunity to come help us celebrate the birth of the Christ Child, and the 20th birthday of The Lights of Christmas.