39 Years of LITH
In 1987, Woodland Heights neighbors created a holiday event to celebrate friends, family, and the season’s joy. The streets of Woodland Heights were adorned with 'luminaries', transforming the neighborhood into a magical 'Winter Wonderland '. Residents were invited to join in by adding luminaries to their curbs, driveways, and porches, creating a mesmerizing display of light. The event also featured holiday entertainment and refreshments on the Norhill Esplanade, marking the start of a cherished tradition.
According to the WHCA 1989 November/December newsletter, that first event drew 20,000 people to Woodland Heights to see the luminaries lighting up the participating streets and homes. The name we have all come to know the event by, "Lights in the Heights," appears to have been added in 1989, a testament to our community's enduring spirit and commitment to creating memorable experiences.
Some 39 years later, Lights in the Heights continues due to the dedicated support of neighbors, sponsors, and volunteers. The scope of the project may have grown but the sentiment remains the same - to celebrate the season with lights, neighbors, and friends; enjoy good music, and experience the small town atmosphere of the Woodland Heights.
Behind the lights and good times are a few dedicated volunteers who together with the Woodland Heights Civic Association, work to raise funds and coordinate the needed COH Permits, Security, volunteer porches, entertainment, street closures, and other important items needed to hold Lights In The Heights. The WHCA thanks the neighbors who make give their time, energy, and resources to making this event possible.
Including Ashley Allison, who works to secure permits and is the logistical coordinator for the LITH event; Nikki Haley, who is this years LITH Boots & Bow Ties coordinator, Joy Roth, who coordinates the event's entertainment, Tiffany Tyler, who coordinates the Norhill Dinosaurs creation and fundraising to keep this unique tradition going, Pat Rutledge and Louise Moss, who have tirelessly overseen the lighting of the Watson Street Esplanade (this year sponsored by Humbug Lighting), Beth Sorensen, who oversees the neighborhood only Friday Night Lights, and all the individual board members who have stepped forward to help in securing sponsorships for the event, provide behind the scenes logistical support, pay the bills, put up signage, and all the other heavy lifting required to coordinate Lights in the Heights.
Please note if you’d like to volunteer we would love to have your help! Send us a note to board@woodland-heights.org we’d love to hear from you!