8th Annual Festival of Lights in Bowman City Park

BOWMAN, N.D. (DECEMBER 3, 2025) – Several hundred community members filled Bowman City Park on December 3 to celebrate the 8th Annual Festival of Lights, a cherished local tradition that officially ushered in the holiday season. With only the soft glow of luminaries lighting the park, the crowd gathered in anticipation. At the final countdown, the park burst into a dazzling display of twinkling lights, drawing cheers and smiles from attendees of all ages.

The Dollars for Scholars soup feed was once again a huge hit. Families also enjoyed hot chocolate, candy canes, glow sticks, a fire, and a visit from Santa, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Throughout the evening, guests cast votes for their favorite decorated tree or shelter. This year’s People’s Choice Award went to the Bowman County Girls Basketball Team, earning a $250 prize. The runner-up, ABLE, Inc., received a $100 prize for their display.

The park’s holiday lights will remain on throughout the new year, so be sure to take in the magic of the season at Bowman City Park.

Thank you to the businesses, community organizations, and community members who made Festival of Lights possible by decorating the park or giving of their time. A special thank you is given to Bowman Dollars for Scholars, Bowman Parks and Recreation, Bowman Tax and Tourism, Bowman County School District, Bowman Fire Department, Bowman Electric, and local daycares and students.

This year’s decorations were provided by:  Ace High 4H Club, ABC Daycare, ABLE, Inc., Bowman County Development Corporation, Bowman County Fair Association, Bowman County Extension, Bowman County Girls Basketball Team, Bowman Drug, Bowman Fire Department, Bowman Methodist Church, Bowman Ranch, Bowman Rotary, Bowman Parks and Recreation, Brosz Engineering, Inc., Classic Beauty Salon, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, Dakota Western Bank, Double EE Service, Farm Credit Services of Mandan, Frontier Travel Center, Gooseneck Implement, K-Artistry Salon, Lutheran Youth Organization, Northwest Tire, Pioneer Trails Regional Museum, Prairie Dental, Premier Core Training & Gym, ProPoint Cooperative, South Main Lanes, Southwest Public Transit, Southwest Healthcare, The 8512, Two Tired Garage, West Plains Inc., and Woodleys.