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FROM STAFF REPORTS

WESTOVER – Freedom Family Church announced the debut of its Christmas Light Show which will feature a display of choreographed lights and music designed to bring holiday joy to the Shelby County community.

The Christmas Light Show will run nightly from 5-10 p.m., Dec. 1 through Wednesday, Jan. 1.

“This Christmas light show is our gift to the community,” Pastor Rick Dykes said. “In a world that can sometimes feel dark, we want to shine Christ’s light and love in a way that brings wonder and joy to everyone who visits. It’s about creating moments that bring families together during this special season.”

The display features 30,000 LED lights synchronized to holiday music, which visitors can enjoy from their vehicles by tuning to 97.1 FM. The show is being brought to life by Chelsea’s own Ricky Cloutier and his son Zach, whose previous light displays have earned national recognition after they were featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight.”

“When Pastor Rick approached us about creating a display for Freedom Family Church, we knew this was an opportunity to share our passion for Christmas lights with an even broader audience,” Ricky Cloutier said. “This show represents hundreds of hours of programming and setup, but seeing families experience the joy it brings makes it all worthwhile.”

Zach Cloutier, who handles much of the technical programming shared that they have incorporated some new elements this year.

“We’ve incorporated some new elements this year that we think will really surprise people,” he said. “Each song tells its own story through light, and we’ve worked hard to create something truly special for our community.”

To make the experience even more special, Freedom Family Church volunteers will be serving complimentary hot chocolate to visitors on Friday nights throughout December.

“There’s something special about sipping hot chocolate while watching the lights dance to Christmas music,” Dykes said. “It’s these simple moments that create lasting holiday memories.”

The church also invites the community to attend the church’s special Christmas Candlelight Services on Saturday, Dec. 21 at 6 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 22 at 10:30 a.m. These services will feature traditional carols, a special worship service, the Christmas story and the warm glow of candlelight, offering a meaningful way to celebrate the true spirit of the season.

The light show is free and open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early during peak viewing times, especially on weekends.

Freedom Family Church aims to help families experience true freedom in Christ, by connecting with a Christ-centered community and serve as the hands and feet of Jesus in Chelsea and beyond.

“Through life-giving worship, intentional relationships and a commitment to putting faith into action, we’re raising up a generation that’s equipped to face tomorrow’s challenges while experiencing the joy of Christ today,” read an official press release from Freedom Family Church. “Our focus on ‘Find Freedom, Join the Family, Be the Church’ creates a foundation where every person can break free from spiritual bondage, find genuine connection, and live out their God-given purpose.”