By-Line: Michelle Bartlome, President-Elect, Rotary Club of Flagler County

Donations Raised from the Event Support Local Non-profit Organizations and Scholarships for Deserving High School Seniors

The Rotary Club of Flagler County raised more than $27,000 in net profit for its 19th annual “Fantasy Lights” festival, held from Nov. 30 to Dec. 30.

This year’s event welcomed 30,000 visitors with 57 dazzling displays that filled the nights at Central Park in Palm Coast with holiday magic.

“Fantasy Lights is a holiday tradition that brings so much joy to our families and community,” said Bill Butler, event co-chair, Rotary Club of Flagler County. “Keeping this event thriving year after year is made possible by the passion of our volunteers and the generosity of our supporters. It is wonderful to see families create cherished memories while giving back to the community.”

Majority of the funds raised through Fantasy Lights directly benefit local non-profit organizations and provide scholarships to deserving high school seniors.

“The Fantasy Lights Festival is something our community looks forward to every year,” said Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris. “This event brings families together to celebrate the holiday season and supports meaningful causes that make Palm Coast and Flagler County better. Thank you to the Rotary Club of Flagler County and everyone who makes this tradition possible year after year.”

This year’s event featured exciting new additions, including an angel tossing a dove display, a jet skiing Santa display, and expanded food truck offerings. Attendees also enjoyed the annual Taste of the Holidays and Santa’s Village, complete with hot chocolate, marshmallow roasting, and guaranteed snowfall throughout the event on certain days.

Fantasy Lights, which began in 2006 with just 16 displays, has grown into the premier holiday event in Flagler County.

The Rotary Club of Flagler County thanks all sponsors, volunteers, and attendees for their support. With this year’s total raised reaching more than $27,000, the club looks forward to continuing its mission of service and community impact in 2025.

For more information about the Rotary Club of Flagler County, visit www.flaglerrotary.org.

A silhouetted angel made of white Christmas lights is depicted with wings and a halo, reaching towards a bird in flight, also outlined in white lights, against a black background Three illuminated Christmas tree shapes with smiling faces, outlined in green, red, and green lights Each tree has a star on top, and they are connected by a string of lights against a black background A nighttime scene features a large arch adorned with blue and white lights, topped by a star shaped decoration In the background, a brightly lit Christmas tree stands, surrounded by festive lights and decorations A paver path leads under the arch