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Bike ride kicks off annual Christmas in the Park display

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LEE'S SUMMIT, Mo. -- Bicyclists will get the first chance to see this year’s annual Christmas in the Park display at Longview Lake Park in Jackson County. 

Tuesday, the park hosts “Trip the Light Fantastic.” The event allows bicyclists to ride their bike through the 4.5-mile display of Christmas lights. The park opens to drivers Wednesday and closes New Year’s Eve.

If you did not register ahead of time, you can sign up for Tuesday’s bike ride at the parking lot of the Frank White, Jr., Ballpark beginning at 5 p.m. The ballpark is located at 3901 SW Longview Park Drive, Lee’s Summit, Missouri.

The bike ride kicks off at 6 p.m. County organizers said headlights and helmets are required for the nighttime ride. Parental discretion is advised for children because the route is hilly in places.

Christmas in the Parkis in its 30th season. There will be a few new displays this year, including "Santa's Christmas Castle."

Jackson County puts on the display as a gift to the community, so it is free to drive through the lights.

Even still, people have donated to the county year after year.

“Due to the generosity of the community, it’s so exciting to say we've collected $1.1 million, which has benefited over 1,000 charities here at home,” said Michele Newman, the director of Jackson County Parks and Recreation.

Set-up for the large light display began in September. All the displays are created in house.

The display is open the following hours:

  • Sunday - Thursday: 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
  • Friday & Saturday: 5:30 p.m. - 11 p.m.

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