PALM COAST, Fla., Sept. 29, 2025 – What began as a little girl’s dream two decades ago has become a treasured community tradition. This year, the Rotary Club of Flagler County Foundation is celebrating the 20th anniversary of Fantasy Lights, a holiday event bringing families together, lighting up Central Park in Palm Coast and fundraising for local nonprofits.
Since its inception, the event has generated more than $375,000 in support for the local community, powered by an incredible 36,000 volunteer hours.
Fantasy Lights began in 2006 when Rotary member Bill Butler, former City of Palm Coast employee, brought his daughter Tiffany’s vision of a holiday light show to life in Flagler County. Tiffany, who passed away from a heart condition, had imagined such an event.
“Each year, I think about how far we’ve come and how it all started with Tiffany’s imagination,” said Bill Butler, co-chair of Fantasy Lights, Rotary Club of Flagler County. “This 20th anniversary means everything to us. What began with 16 light displays and a few thousand attendees has turned into something extraordinary. I know Tiffany would be proud.”
Over the years, the event has grown to feature 57 light displays, a miniature train, food trucks, Santa’s Village, snow nights, and the annual Taste of the Holidays.
“Our club pours heart and soul into Fantasy Lights every year, but this 20th anniversary milestone makes it even more special,” said Michelle Bartlome, President, Rotary Club of Flagler County. “This event is about community, service, and continuing a legacy that brings joy and purpose to the season.”
Fantasy Lights will take place Nov. 29 – Dec. 30, nightly from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Opening night will coincide with the City of Palm Coast’s tree lighting ceremony and include food trucks, hot cocoa, and marshmallow roasting in Santa’s Village.
There will be a special 20th anniversary celebration on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 6:30 p.m., honoring the legacy of this event and the community that made it thrive. The Club will also host the Holiday Market on Dec. 20.
The City of Palm Coast will host their annual Starlight Parade on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. in Central Park. Festivities include photos with Santa starting at 4 p.m. and food trucks from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
To learn more about the event and the Rotary Club of Flagler County, visit www.flaglerrotary.org.
