Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 18, 2025
Contact: Kim Wells, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, kim.wells@dcr.virginia.gov
Lights at the Lake returns to Bear Creek Lake State Park for 11th annual holiday celebration
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Light tunnel and decorations at Bear Creek Lake State Park)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Picnic shelter activities at Bear Creek Lake State Park)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Lights along scenic route at Bear Creek Lake State Park)
CUMBERLAND, Va. – The holiday season shines bright at Bear Creek Lake State Park as the beloved Lights at the Lake event returns for its 11th year. This family-friendly celebration of lights, community and holiday cheer will take place on December 5-7 and December 12-14, from 5 to 8 p.m. each evening.
Visitors are invited to drive through the park’s campground and beach area to enjoy a magical winter wonderland filled with festive light displays and community-decorated exhibits. The event offers a unique blend of holiday spirit and outdoor fun for all ages.
Event highlights include:
“This event is a wonderful way to celebrate the season with family and friends while supporting the local community,” said Joey Dayton, manager at Bear Creek Lake State Park. “We’re excited to welcome new and returning visitors back for another year of holiday magic.”
In order to expedite entry to the park, please bring cash or a new unwrapped toy. For more information call the park office at 804-492-4410 or to pre-order barbecue, contact Tim Kennell at 804-840-2985.
All toys and donations collected at this event will assist the Cumberland Christmas Mother by helping provide gifts and support to local families in need. Last year, the event collected 1,320 toys and over $14,000 in donations. Organizers hope to surpass that total this year.
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Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.
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