Every winter, something extraordinary happens at Warm Beach Camp & Conference Center. As the days grows, the beautiful grounds transform into a glowing wonderland! Welcoming families, friends, and visitors from across the region to experience The Lights of Christmas. 🎄
What many people may not realize is that this beloved holiday tradition began with a faith-inspired heart.
In the new episode of the Age Out Loud podcast, Gary Dewhirst, Executive Director of Warm Beach Faith-Inspired Retirement Living, sat down with Ed McDowell, Executive Director of Warm Beach Camp & Conference Center, who shared the story of how The Lights of Christmas came to be, and how it grew into one of the top Christmas light displays in the United States!
As next-door neighbors, our residents play a meaningful role, volunteering for The Lights of Christmas and supporting the Camp year-round. It’s a powerful example of connection across generations and of living with purpose, service, and joy.
From Humble Beginnings to a National Favorite
The Lights of Christmas didn’t start with millions of bulbs or grand plans to become a national destination. It started with a vision to create something meaningful during the holiday season, something that would bring people together, offer joy, faith and serve the wider community.
Now in its 29th year, with creativity, dedication, and the help of countless volunteers and staff, the event grew steadily! New displays were added, traditions formed, and families began returning annually, making The Lights of Christmas part of their own holiday story.
Today, it has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors and continues to shine as a hallmark of warmth, generosity, and festive beauty.
As Ed McDowell shares in the podcast, the heart behind the event has always been rooted in service, stewardship, and creating memories that last far beyond December.
Gary Dewhirst reflects on how this shared spirit mirrors the values of Warm Beach Faith-Inspired Retirement Living, as many of our residents volunteer to help out our neighbors and community partners.
The Power of Tradition
Traditions don’t last decades by accident. They endure because people care deeply and believe in the magic of bringing others together. The Lights of Christmas stands as a testament to what’s possible when a community commits to something greater than itself.
As we celebrate another holiday season, this story reminds us of the light that has the unique power to guide, to comfort, and to unite.
🎄 Listen to the full Age Out Loud podcast episode to hear Gary and Ed’s inspiring conversation and discover the heart behind one of America’s most cherished Christmas experiences.
You can watch it too!
Aging boldly. Living fully. This is Age Out Loud.
Jennifer Boland
Community Team
