Pat Stephens in the WIZM studio to help preview the 31st annual Rotary Lights.

The holiday display goes live in Riverside Park when Santa hits the switch after the downtown parade at 5 p.m. Friday. 

Stephens tells the story of how they got Rotary Lights started, and why it moved a couple times and now is home at Riverside.

He also talks about some of the new lighting displays this year, including a volcano, and some of the old favorites. 

Checking out the event is free, but guests are asked to bring a nonperishable food item. 

Last year, they brought in 340,000 pounds of donations — just off the record of 351,000 set in 2023.

The display will be lit up until January 1. 

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