The Interlochen Christmas Lights began in 1976 when Carole Findlay and her late husband Bob encouraged their neighbors to decorate their homes to call attention to the brand new sub-division. This will be the 46th year of our unique, free, neighborhood volunteer event which has brought joy to millions of children of all ages. Thanks to all residents for donating your time, your effort and your electricity. We charge no admission, we make no profit and we put up with all the inconveniences because we are so proud of our neighborhood and it is so much fun to give back to our community during the Christmas season.
The Schedule—We are happy to report that the City of Arlington is once again providing the funding for police overtime for traffic control during the Interlochen Christmas Lights. Arlington Police will be controlling traffic for 12 nights. They will be at key intersections from 6 to 11 p.m. from Friday December 17 through Christmas Night, Saturday December 25. In addition, there will be three bonus preview nights, Friday December 10 through Sunday December 12.
Visitor Holiday Traffic– Visitors will be directed to follow the same route as the last few years with all cars entering on Westwood, turning left at Crowley and then right on Loch Lomond, Findlay and Porto Bello before exiting back out via Westwood. The HOA will provide extra signage to make sure visitors do not miss the great decorations on San Juan, San Paulo and Montreau Courts.
Resident Holiday Traffic—There will be signage from the Public Works Department directing visitors to stay in the right lane on Westwood with residents keeping to the left. Residents are advised to place their “Lake Interlochen Resident” signs on the dash of your cars so they are visible to the police and visitors. Please hold up your signs and please show patience with the police officers if they double check to make sure you are driving in the proper resident lane. To help make this work, please do not park on the street after dark and please do not let your kids sell anything along the curb. There should be no soliciting of any kind.
Lighting Awards—Ten decorating awards will be presented on Friday December 17. The HOA Board of Directors has once again decided to encourage increased participation by giving preference to homes that have not won an award in the last two years. There are awards for “Best Theme”, “Most Artistic”, “Best New Resident”, “People’s Choice” and, of course, the coveted “Griswald Award” for over the top lighting. The Findlay Award in Bob’s honor always goes to a resident who has decorated for more than 30 years. The Porter Award in Vernon’s honor as our first HOA President goes to the home judged to have the best lakeside display.
President’s Christmas Open House–Cancelled last year due to health concerns, this fun annual Interlochen area meet & greet will go on again Sunday December 19 at 2 p.m.