Thousands of lights lit in Hopkins neighborhood bring communities together

HOPKINS, Minn. (FOX 9) – A Christmas Eve tradition in Hopkins brings the community together with thousands of lights.

Hundreds of homes installed lights and turned them on on Christmas Eve

The backstory: It’s a tradition in the area primarily between 5th Avenue North and 12th Avenue North that has lit the way for about a decade. The event’s co-organizer said it was all sparked by a neighbor who wanted to spread holiday cheer.

“His name was Dave Benson, and he liked to light the lights on his steps and sidewalk. Just to invite people over for Christmas. Sadly, we lost our friend Dave, he passed away from cancer,” she said. said Lisa Nelson, co-leader.

His legacy and his light shine.

“Our local Avenues Association here in Hopkins has really developed this project and people have become very enthusiastic about it,” Nelson said.

Organizers said it was quite a large operation, planning and coordinating dozens of blocks, hundreds of homes and thousands of lights. Many prepare the lights days or weeks in advance, then install them on Christmas Eve.

Christmas Eve Event 2024

Local perspective: “This year 2024, we have 24 blocks, 360 homes and over 4,400 fixtures,” Nelson said.

Neighbors said the event brings the community together and is also a gift everyone can enjoy.

“People are walking around and they are happy. They celebrate peace together. Nelson said.

“That’s the best part, is greeting our neighbors as we all go out to light them up and set them up and talk to them because in the winter you don’t see people,” said Ann Van Sickle, a neighbor. “It’s really special because you can wish for a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, and it’s just a real sense of community.”

“We each do our own and when we’re done you’ll have a whole block. Then we’ll help the neighbors when they’re ready,” said neighbor Dick Van Sickle.

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