A million lights for Christmas

DANBURY TWP. — Building light displays isn't something new for Tim Loris. His home on Bogart Road in Perkins Township has been a popular stop for people wanting to see Christmas lights. This year, Loris took a Christmas display to a whole new level but on a different property. Loris collaborated with The Watering Hole Safari and Waterpark, formerly Monsoon Lagoon, to create a drive-thru experience for families to celebrate the holiday. He approached the business with his idea of turning the property into a Christmas wonderland. The display, Lights on the Northcoast, took Loris about a year to plan and build. "Creating this was no easy task," said Loris, who owns Accurate Business Machines in Sandusky. He built lighted props and pushed pixel lights into each piece. There's a 45-foot tree that has nearly 16,000 lights that were pushed into strips. Loris also traveled to different states to pick up different items. In one instance, he flew to Charlotte and rented a truck, so he could drive back home with a large load of Christmas decorations. He also attended a huge convention for decorations in St. Louis. Loris started installing lights at The Watering Hole property in July and worked most nights and weekends. He finished by early November. There are more than 1 million lights throughout the drive-thru, zoo and mini golf course. The lights are synced to music and some of the props even sing along. Loris said he loves seeing kids' faces light up when they see his displays. He creates shows for the whole family to enjoy, so they can make memories together. "I want to make this a tradition for families to come see year after year," Loris said. "Of course, it's going to get bigger and brighter each year." Lights on the Northcoast is open seven days a week but will be closed on Christmas Day. The last day to see the display is Jan. 8. Santa will also be at the zoo every weekend until Christmas. People can purchase tickets to see the display at lightsonthenorthcoast.com or at The Watering Hole, 1530 S. Danbury Road in Port Clinton.