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Allentown's Lights in the Parkway reopening after vandalism causes estimated $100,000 in damage

The Lights in the Parkway drive-thru holiday show along the Lehigh River in Allentown, Pennsylvania, will reopen Tuesday after "significant vandalism" prompted the city to shut it down over the weekend.

City officials said Sunday portable toilets were pushed into the river, light poles were bent and light bulbs were crushed along the display route.

In an update, the city and mayor's office said several of the displays are considered a total loss, and are projecting a minimum loss of $100,000 for staffing costs, destroyed and damaged decorations and lost revenue. The Old Man Winter, Penguin with the Top Hat and Fishing Penguins pieces are considered unsalvageable.

Holiday Outdoor Decor is loaning 22 display pieces to help get Lights in the Parkway back up and running.

"Thanks to this generosity, the attraction will be restored and ready to reopen to vehicle traffic [Tuesday] night, provided there are no additional setbacks," the city said.

Lights in the Parkway was scheduled to run through Jan. 6, 2026.

Damage to the "Lights in the Parkway" holiday display in Allentown, Pennsylvania
Damage to the "Lights in the Parkway" holiday display in Allentown, Pennsylvania City of Allentown

Allentown police are investigating the vandalism, though officials said Monday there is no update on the criminal case as they "continue to assess the full scope of damage."

The city added that Lights on the Parkway helps benefit local nonprofits, and because of Sunday night's closure, Allen High School lost out on a day of donations.

"Those interested in supporting the program and helping replace damaged displays can contribute through The Parknership at: https://givebutter.com/25lights. Donations will be used directly to replace destroyed light displays," the city said."

Damage to the "Lights in the Parkway" holiday display in Allentown, Pennsylvania
Damage to the "Lights in the Parkway" holiday display in Allentown, Pennsylvania City of Allentown

Anyone with information on who's responsible for the damage can contact Allentown Police at (610) 437-7753. Tipsters are also encouraged to provide information related to the incident through the TIP411 application on www.allentownpa.gov/police.

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