Christmas Lights Bring Hope and Cheer Amid Pandemic

World of Illumination’s Candy Rush holiday lights display in Marietta, Georgia
Credit: Explore Georgia

As the holidays draw near and COVID-19 cases spike across the country, many cities are transitioning from Christmas tree-lighting ceremonies and other pedestrian activities to drive-through displays. Others are taking the opportunity to create light memorials that honor the more than 279,000 Americans who’ve died from the virus. Meanwhile, some individuals are erecting their own creations to encourage connection, inspire joy and offer opportunities for mourning.

Credit: Live Nation

Some cities have cancelled Christmas lights displays due to concerns over spreading the virus, while remaining walk-in events often urge mask-wearing and social distancing. Others have adapted by offering drive-through options, enabling individuals to enjoy the season from the safety of their cars. From New York to Omaha, Nebraska to San Jose, California, people around the nation are finding ways to access joy while celebrating with family and friends. “It brings cheer to a time when things are uncertain and disappointing,” Cynthia Perez told Fox News of San Jose’s new drive-through option. “It really lit up the city.”

Credit: Santa’s Rock N Lights in Omaha, Nebraska

COVID-19 Victims Memorialized With Light Displays

Some authorities, companies and individuals are also using lights to create unique memorials for those who’ve died from COVID-19. Contemporary architecture firm Axis Mundi has proposed a COVID-19 memorial light installation called “Numinous” in New York. Meanwhile, Minnesota recently lit up bridges, buildings and other landmarks in purple to honor frontline workers and those who’ve died from the virus.

And in Orlando, Florida, one couple took matters into their own hands, erecting more than 270,000 Christmas lights to honor COVID-19 victims. “We sit out here every night and look at the people pass by and look at the lights,” Frank Boyce told Click Orlando. “And there’s not a night that we don’t cry.”

Christmas lights have taken on unusual significance this year, with many people sharing on social media that putting up their lights has felt especially meaningful. In March, numerous families resurrected their displays to provide much-needed cheer toward the onset of the pandemic.

McAdenville, North Carolina, put up Christmas lights in March during
the pandemic.
Credit: Jeff Siner for The Charlotte Observer

The initiative recalled the ancient roots of Christmas, when people in the Northern Hemisphere placed evergreen boughs around their homes to remind them that springtime would, indeed, return.