The third annual Lights of the Northwoods takes place the next two weekends at Rhinelander’s Hodag Park.  The event, which began with displays using a modest 50,000 lights three years ago, now boasts upwards of 150,000 lights.

Kickoff is 5 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13, at Hodag Park with a ribbon cutting and ceremonial opening of the event with the Rhinelander Area Ambassadors. The light display will be available for viewing 5-9 p.m., Dec. 13-15 and 20-22.

The event is free, but once again this year food and monetary donations will be collected on site. A portion of the proceeds will stay with Lights of the Northwoods to help grow the displays, and the remaining donations will be given to participating non-profit groups.

Friday, Dec. 13: Rhinelander Area Food Pantry/Rhinelander Lions Club Night • RHS Choir 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 14: Elcho Food Pantry • Lakeland Barbershop Chorus 6-7 p.m. • Elcho Music Department 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 15: Rhinelander Area Food Pantry/ Northern Edge Figure Skating Team Night

Friday, Dec. 20: Rhinelander Area Food Pantry and Special Olympics/Masons Night

Saturday, Dec. 21: Tomahawk Food Pantry and Rhinelander Robotics Club/Printpack Night

Sunday, Dec. 22: Rhinelander Area Food Pantry • Choraliers 5-6 p.m.

Events featured each night

§ Light display 5-9 p.m.

§ Visit with Santa and free photos 5-8:30 p.m. (Flintography)

§ Free shuttle bus to and from lot behind CT’s Deli 4:30-8:30 p.m.

§ Free park trolley (weather permitting) leaves and returns to the activity area throughout the evening, courtesy of the Oneida County Fair

§ Bonfire manned by area fire department volunteers

§ Concessions with hot beverages and food for purchase from RHS Band Parent Organization