Winterhaven kicks off Festival of Lights

CREATED Dec. 10, 2011

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  • It's the 62nd Annual Winterhaven Festival of Lights is underway, attracting thousands of people to the neighborhood. Video by kgun9.com

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Reporter:  Jessica Chapin

TUCSON (KGUN9- TV) - It's the 62nd Annual Winterhaven Festival of Lights is underway, attracting thousands of people to the neighborhood. 

Whether walking or catching a ride on a carriage or trolley, families come to enjoy spectacular lighting displays, many of which are home-made by residents.

From scenes based on the 12 Days of Christmas, to a Christmas depiction of the popular game Angry Birds, each yard has something unique to offer, and many get more elaborate each year.

The Lacey family moved into Winterhaven last year, and since then, they've joined the competitive nature of their neighbors.  Christina Lacey described this year's expansion.

"We added a lot more lights and we're going to add a manger scene," said the 14-year-old, "and we're adding a lot more animals."

Many of the residents say the festival is something they look forward to all year, and take weeks to set up their displays to show off.

"It's weird looking out the window and seeing all these people," said Lacey, "but it's nice though because all these families get to see the lights and it makes you feel like you're a part of something."

The festival is truly part of something bigger.  It's one of the biggest fund-raisers for the Community Food Bank.  Visitors are all encouraged to bring a can donation.  Last year Winterhaven collected more than 44 thousand pounds of food.