Franklin Simpson Parks and Rec hosts 4th annual Nights of Lights display, announces new playground for 2026

FRANKLIN, Ky. – An annual Simpson County favorite is back, and this year, it’s setting the stage for a big 2026 for Franklin Simpson Parks and Recreation.

“This is our fourth year of the event, and it keeps growing each year, thanks to the generous sponsors in our community. That allows us to make it available for free. We do accept donations, but cash goes into future displays. But we also really love those nonperishable food items that go to our local food pantries,” director Lisa Deavers says.

One of the few light shows in South Central Kentucky that’s free to the public is now open, as the Nights of Lights runs until Christmas night. There’s plenty new in store this year.

“We have 14 new displays this year as they’re coming through. We have more lights in the trees… and I can’t thank our staff enough because we’re a small staff. Boy, they put their heart and soul into it and get everything done to make it great for our community. We also have new this year, our trail of trees. We have a few entries, but that’s back at Santa’s Barn, take a walk through, vote for your favorite. Again this year, this is the second year for this, we have our memory trees for your loved ones as well as our memory trees for your beloved pets that are located at the dog park,” Deavers says.

While the Night of Lights is often a chance for families to celebrate the holiday season together, for Deavers and her team, it’s a chance to reflect on what’s been a great 2025 and prepare for an even better 2026 with huge things to come.

“In 2026, our project is a universal playground here at Jim Roberts Community Park… and we’ll be kicking off those fundraising efforts, and while our light display goes on from tonight, the 19th, through December 25th, we’re here Christmas night 6 to 9PM… we are offering a special opportunity for those that want to walk through the lights to do that on Friday night. Now that will be fee based as it’s a fundraiser for the playground,” Deavers says.

This playground will be the first of its kind in Simpson County and offer a chance for everyone to have fun in a centralized place.

“That’s going to be a great way for children of all abilities to be able to play together, to have that unity and to have a place that they feel welcome,” Deavers says.

News 40 will keep you updated as this project rolls along.