The City of Madisonville and Pennyrile Area Development District were recognized as runner-up in a national photo contest for the city’s first-ever Christmas light show, Deck the Park.
Public Relations Director Emily Locke says the City of Madisonville through its partner organization PADD were recognized during the National Association of Development Organizations’ annual training conference. She says out of 362 members representing 47 states, the City of Madisonville received the distinction for creating an event that sought to bring hope and joy in challenging times.
Madisonville Mayor Kevin Cotton, who spoke during the Deck the Park, said he was proud of their team. He said they were able to do something unheard of. He noted in 11 short days, they decked the park, and they did that because they wanted to bring hope to the Madisonville community. He added they wanted community members to see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
During the Deck the Park event, Locke says over 270,000 visitors went through Madisonville City Park to view the light show, Liquid Fireworks by Waltzing Waters, Inc., a 168-foot light tunnel, and Mr. & Mrs. Claus waving from their cottage.
Locke says because of the success of the event, the City of Madisonville plans to make Deck the Park an annual event from Thanksgiving to New Year’s from 5 to 9 PM nightly. She adds that this year’s event will include a walking trail with several photo-op pieces for families to enjoy.
For more information on this year’s Deck the Park, visit madisonvilleliving.com.
