Anyone wanting to view the Christmas at Panther Creek light display can do so for free Thursday, on behalf of Owensboro Health. The free admission is only good for that night, but the lights will continue to be displayed nightly through January 2.
The park is open from 6-9 p.m. each night for viewing of the lights. With the exception of this Thursday, admission is $5 per vehicle (cash only). The event consists of a 1.15-mile lighted driving tour with more than 50 displays and 700,000 lights.
Each year, nonprofit agencies can apply to work the gate and collect admission. Five agencies are selected at random from the applicant pool and collectively receive half of the total event proceeds. The 5 nonprofits benefitting from this year’s event are:
- DUST BOWL Basketball Tournament
- Aubrey’s Song Foundation for Eating Disorders
- Moseleyville Volunteer Fire Department – MVFD
- Stanley Playground Association
- Help Office of Owensboro
The other half of the funds go back to preparing next year’s light show as they continue to expand the route and bring in new elements.
The light display drew approximately 5,500 vehicles in 2022 and brought in nearly $28,000 — the third-most ever raised. A record amount of $49,300 was raised in 2020, while more than $38,000 was raised in 2021.
Panther Creek Park is located at 5160 Wayne Bridge Road, just west of Owensboro off KY 81.
