Presque Isle Lights
Fri. - Sun. December 6-29
ABOUT US
We are your host, Presque Isle Partnership, a non-profit organization working to make your Presque Isle experience the most enjoyable throughout the seasons. We are entirely funded through public donations and everything we do is a direct result of the community's generous spirit toward the park. Simply put, we‘re here to enhance the work already being done by DCNR to help ensure Presque Isle remains a cherished and inclusive haven for all. Gifts to the Partnership are 100% tax deductible and stay here for the betterment of your park.
WHAT IS PRESQUE ISLE LIGHTS?
Presque Isle Lights offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the park after dark, with glowing lights and festive decorations highlighting its natural charm. Volunteers have been hard at work since early November preparing for this event, which grows each year with the addition of new lights and displays.
For added holiday cheer, guests can get into the full holiday spirit by tuning their radios to the official soundtrack of Presque Isle Lights, Classy 100 "The Christmas Station.". Additionally, hot cocoa will be available for purchase on Friday and Saturday evenings at the 4th bayside parking area, weather permitting.
Guests are reminded to be mindful of the park’s nocturnal wildlife, drive 25 mph or less, and keep a safe distance between vehicles.
WHAT IS THE COST?
This family-friendly event is free, but visitors are encouraged to make a donation at the third parking lot after entering the park, across from the Stull Interpretive Center. Donations support the Presque Isle Partnership’s efforts to meet the park’s growing needs through accessibility improvements, conservation initiatives, special events, and more. For every $5 donation, you'll receive a commemorative Presque Isle Lights button and can register your button for a chance to win a $1000 Country Fair gas card. The winning button will be posted here on January 4, 2025.
Buttons can also be purchased at Presque Isle Gallery & Gifts located in the Tom Ridge Environment Center Tues-Saturday; 10-4pm
WHEN ARE LIGHTS ON?
Lights are turned ON Friday - Sunday, Dec 6 - 29 at dusk and the park gates close at 9pm, weather dependent. Visitors must be through the entrance gates by 9pm to drive around the park.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
Iconic park areas featuring lights and displays will include the Stull Interpretive Center, Ranger Station, Waterworks picnic shelters, Presque Isle Lighthouse, and Lagoons to name a few. Our volunteers and friends at Penelec have worked hard to develop a tasteful display that highlights Presque Isle’s natural beauty and is respectful of the environment. Along the way you will encounter the following from the comfort and safety of your vehicle:
- the natural beauty of Presque Isle after dark
- illuminated areas where power is available
- a decorated historic Lighthouse
- the brightly shining Erie skyline seen from across Presque Isle Bay
- and plenty of darkness in between - the park is about 3,200 acres and there is only one power line running through it