Dubuque Holiday’s ‘Wrap-Up’ with a Walk at Reflections in the Park

I hope your holiday season was as eventful as mine was... or maybe I don't. The holidays are chaotic at worst and an absolute delight at best; and this year my family got a decent amount of both. I'm sure your family did, too.

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Two weeks away from radio and writing and here's what happened for me. Lots of family time, gift giving (and opening), overeating, many miles traveled, several days spent sick, and some extremely proud dad moments.

First off, if your family was like mine than you spent some of you PTO sick. Norovirus screamed through our household and took out 3 of 5 members, including myself. Nothing says "Happy Holiday's" like clinging to the good-ole porcelain throne. But I digress, amongst the anguish there where some real highs. My daughter was able to sing the National Anthem on New Years Eve at the Dubuque Fighting Saints game.

Not everyone can get up and sing in front of that many people. Super proud of her, and her performance was great! The Saints also won so it was an awesome night, as we spent it celebrating the New Year with family.

Of course, our holiday season in Dubuque just wouldn't be complete without a trip through Reflections in the Park. It's become a holiday tradition for many families across the Tri-State area and ours is no different. However, this year our enjoyment of the park was much more intimate, as some warmer winter temperatures allowed one final walk through before it closed up for the year.

Usually, a walk through begins the holiday season at Reflections in the Park, this year it just so happened to end their season as well at Hillcrest Family Services. So, my family and I took the chance, bundled up, and enjoy one of our best experiences in our 15 years going through the lights at Reflections.

Check out what you missed, below!

Whether you’ve been driving through Reflections in the Park for decades or seeing it for the first time here, the magic behind every display goes far beyond the lights. Each scene represents the time, creativity, and generosity of a community coming together to support Hillcrest Family Services and the vital mental health, education, and wellness programs they provide across the Tri-States. Through sponsorships, volunteer hours, and every family that visits, Reflections in the Park continues to light the way for those in need; making it a holiday tradition that truly shines long after the season ends.