Veterans United to Host Columbia Holiday Lights
The popular drive-through holiday light display will return to Columbia for a multi-week run in December.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Civic
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Veterans United Home Loans has announced the return of its free drive-through holiday lights display in Columbia. The event, which previously served as a popular local tradition, will welcome community members starting in December 2026.
Why it matters
The company decided to reverse its previous plan to end the event by coordinating with neighbors and community partners. This effort ensures the continuation of a holiday experience that has seen approximately 100,000 vehicles pass through since the pandemic.
Since the display began during the pandemic, 100,000 vehicles have toured the lights. The public event operates from 7 pm to 10:30 pm on weekdays and 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm on weekends.
The players
Veterans United Home Loans
This mortgage lender is based in Columbia and manages the annual holiday light display as a community service.
The details
Veterans United Home Loans worked through complex logistics with community partners and neighboring residents to keep the display active. The event remains free for all attendees, and the company confirmed that no reservations are required for public access.
Timeline
The event return was announced on October 21, 2026.
Veterans United member access runs from December 3 through December 9, 2026.
The public light display is open from December 10 through December 20, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The display follows the broader trend of businesses leveraging private land for large-scale public events that became popular during the pandemic. This move reflects the ongoing push by major local employers to maintain community goodwill through accessible, free entertainment.
Residents can visit the display for free without making a reservation throughout the designated public dates in December. Weekday visitors should note the 7 pm start time, while weekend guests can arrive as early as 5:30 pm.
The takeaway
This event highlights the impact of community collaboration in sustaining local seasonal traditions after initial cancellation plans. Residents planning to attend should keep the specific December dates in mind to ensure access during the public operating hours.
Further reading
For more information on community events and local updates, visit Columbia Civic.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KRCG.
Live Poll
Should neighborhoods prioritize maintaining local holiday traditions despite potential traffic and logistical challenges?
