Where: Waterworks Park in Des Moines, Iowa

Description: One of the best family events of the season, Tour de Lights allows registered participants a private preview of Jolly Holiday Lights before the event is opened to the general public.  It’s a great excuse to get out of the house and benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s efforts to grant wishes to Iowa children with life-threatening medical conditions.

There is a small entry fee per person. Children under three are free. You’ll also have the opportunity to raise money for Make-A-Wish Foundation by getting pledges from friends, family, co-workers and neighbors. Each participant that raises more in pledges could earn a long-sleeved Tour de Lights T-shirt or T-shirts can be pre-ordered.

Choose from walk/run routes of 1.5 or 3.5 miles or bike routes of 3.5 or 11 miles. Avid bikers will enjoy the 11 mile route that starts downtown and utilizes a trail to get you to Water Works Park.

Contests will be held for best decorated/lit bike, best pet costume and best human costume. Dogs allowed on leashes.

Registration: Online here: www.tourdelights.kintera.org