In 1991, the Battle Creek International Festival of Lights debuted as a city-wide event to celebrate the holidays, no matter what your beliefs might be. It was a huge holiday party…and everyone was invited. By its third year, over 600,000 people visited the city to see the light displays, and they spent over $1 million at restaurants and hotels.

It was a huge success. This is the story of that holiday event…and it’s impact on the community.