Niwot's huge holiday light display delights and delivers meals

Niwot's largest and most enchanting holiday display is now officially switched on. The annual jaw-dropping tradition that is Chuck Rodgers' yard atop the hill on 79th Street just south of Highway 52 will be glowing every night until Jan. 6. For more than 30 years, the joyful and extravagent display has rung in the holiday season like no other area spectacle. But, this year it's also the perfect COVID-free, no-charge family holiday highpoint.

Amongst the thousands of lights, hundreds of inflatable and robotic figures, running reindeer, giant lit-up words, trees in multicolored regalia, and a chorus of Christmas songs wafting through the air, there are two collection boxes for Meals on Wheels Longmont.

Last year's event brought in nearly $8,000 and 160 pounds of shelf-stable provisions for the Longmont nonprofit that delivers meals to those who are unable to shop or prepare food on their own. Rodgers is aiming to once again top the prior year's sums.

Warmer than usual weather and mostly wind-free days, along with assistance from a couple of family members, made this year's many weeks of stringing lights and set up a bit easier than it has been in the past.

Rodgers has always delighted those who slowly cruise through the massive light display with old favorites like Santa in his cozy cabin, but he just can't resist adding more every season. Some new novelties to watch for are lions on the Rodgers' front porch, Santa driving a tractor, and an inflatable Grinch.

The event runs every night from sunset to 9:30 p.m. and is located at 5980 79th Street. For those who want to donate to Meals on Wheels on behalf of the light display, but prefer to do it touch-free, there are several options: scan the barcode on the collection boxes or text "Niwot lights" to 202-858-1233 or visit http://www.givebutter.com/Niwotlights.