This year, even more than ever, we are in need of finding the magic of the holidays … that magic that helps bridge divides, smooths strained relations, allows people to set aside differences to share in the beauty of the season.
Even without snow on the ground, and the second warmest November on record, Duluth’s Bentleyville is just the place to go to kindle the often-nostalgic feelings that accompany the December holiday season.
Whether you are 2, or 20, or 20 times 4, joy fills the air as you walk through the arches of light, as Christmas classics play over the speakers. Donations and sponsorships support the free cookies, popcorn, hot cocoa, and fire pits for roasting marshmallows! People from all walks of life come together to watch the lights dance on the 128 foot tall Christmas tree, wait patiently to talk to Santa or Mrs. Claus, or pause for one of the many photo ops.
The year-round evening illumination of Duluth’s lift bridge glows across the bay, taking a back seat to this seasonal festival of lights.
The meandering lit paths give many opportunities to reflect and be grateful — whether wandering with friends, with family, or taking time for solitary reflection. Give thanks for good health, for a roof over our heads, for love, for community. Bentleyville gives a nod to our troops, as well, with Duluth’s own 148th Fighter Wing garnering a special spot in the display.
If only for an evening, let the “Tour of Lights” push the stress and anxiety of the world’s issues to the side … Embrace the magic of the season.
Ciao! ~ Kat
This post was in response to the Daily Post’s Weekly Photo Challenge. “It’s Not This Time of Year Without…” is this week’s theme. Everyone is welcome to join in the Challenge; further details on how to participate and links to others’ responses are found here: It’s Not This Time of Year Without ….
Travel. Garden. Eat. 
12 responses to “The Importance of Holiday Magic”
Love the festive season…
xx
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Love the light show – looks like lot of fun:)
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Truly can’t help but smile when you wander through a light show like this! Thanks for commenting, Inger!
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That was great fun, Kat! I agree with you that we need to find the magic that unites us!
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Oh so pretty!
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I would love to see this someday Kat. I’ve heard so much about it. The weather has been so gray and I desperately want snow! Wishing you a happy holiday season! 🙂
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While the warmer temps are hard to complain about on one level, I would welcome a blanket of white!!
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Such a wonderful sight!
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Such lovely lights Kat! Happy Christmas!
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Hey, Peggy, good to hear from you! Cheers and best of the season to you, as well! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
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Yes, I fell off the blog bandwagon for a bit but now I’m back on, and hopefully won’t do it again! Been busy with a new house and a new dog named Sherlock! 🙂 Its summer here, so hope you and your family are keeping warm in the Northern Hemisphere! x
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I have not been too present in the blogosphere lately, either – what fun to have a new family member! Enjoy – look forward to your posts!
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