A sure sign that the holiday season has arrived is the opening night of the Carroll County EMS Association’s Festival of Lights at Swan Lake State Park, and the nightly displays are set to begin on Friday, Nov. 28, this year. Kristin Nehring, the association’s treasurer, says the Festival of Lights is a staple for many families from around the area and beyond.
With the ever-growing popularity comes some added pressure to put on a good show. From repairing old displays to incorporating new ones, Nehring says they try to keep the Christmas trek through the park exciting.
The Festival of Lights runs from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. every day from Nov. 28 through Dec. 25. Nehring says it is the one and only fundraiser the association hosts each year, and all of the money raised supports the county’s many volunteer first responders.
Nehring says they only ask people who are able to consider a freewill donation at the end of the ride.
EMS staff will be stationed at the end of the drive each night to collect those donations. The association is also partnering with Carroll County Conservation to host a Winter Festival on Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Conservation Education Center, featuring hay rides, a photo booth, and several holiday visitors. Those interested in donating can also donate via Venmo at @CarrollCountyEMS or mail a check made out to “Carroll County EMS Association” to 203 E. 3rd St., Carroll.
