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Thousands of lights bring together Hopkins neighbors
A Christmas Eve tradition in Hopkins brings the community together with thousands of lights.
HOPKINS, Minn. (FOX 9) - A Christmas Eve tradition in Hopkins brings the community together with thousands of lights.
Hundreds of homes set up luminaries and lit them on Christmas Eve
The backstory: It is a tradition in the area mainly between 5th Avenue North and 12th Avenue North that has been lighting the way for about a decade. The event's co-leader said it was all started by a neighbor who wanted to spread some holiday cheer.
"His name was Dave Benson, and he used to like putting the luminaries out on his steps and sidewalk. Just to invite people over for Christmas. Unfortunately, we lost our friend Dave, he passed away due to cancer," said Lisa Nelson, co-leader.
His legacy and light shine on.
"Our local Avenues Association here in Hopkins really grew this and people became very excited about it," said Nelson.
Organizers said it is quite an extensive operation, planning and coordinating dozens of blocks, hundreds of homes, and thousands of luminaries. Many prepare the luminaries days or weeks in advance then set them up on Christmas Eve.
More than 4,000 lights were shining along two dozen blocks in Hopkins as part of a Christmas Eve tradition in the city. (FOX 9)
2024 Christmas Eve Event
Local perspective: "This year, 2024, we have 24 blocks, 360 homes, and over 4,400 luminaries," said Nelson.
Neighbors said this event brings the community together and is also a gift for everyone to enjoy.
"People walk around and they’re joyous. They’re celebrating peace together. It’s calm. That’s why it’s really continued. People look for it, and they ask about it, so it’s expanded, and we’ve kept it going," said Nelson.
"That’s the best part, is greeting our neighbors as we’re all coming out to light them and get them set up and talking to them because in the winter you don’t see people," said Ann Van Sickle, a neighbor. "It’s really special because you get to wish Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, and it’s just a real community feeling."
"We each do our own and by the time we’re done, you got a whole city block. Then we’ll help the neighbors when they’re ready," said Dick Van Sickle, a neighbor.