Lights of Love Tree Lighting Ceremony

On November 20th at 5:30pm Aspirus Riverview Hospital will host a Tree Lighting Ceremony full of honor and remembrance. This year will be the 23rd annual Lights of Love Tree Lighting Ceremony by the Aspirus Riverview Foundation. Each year the Foundation collects donations in honor or in remembrance of loved ones. Then the community gathers to honor each memory or loved one during this Tree Lighting Ceremony. All proceeds go to support community health programs. You can view the ceremony from near the tree, or from the southwest corner of Aspirus Riverview Parking Lot 1. The Lights of Love Tree Lighting Ceremony will also be aired on WFHR 97.5 FM, 1320 AM, or on the Civic Media App. This makes it accessible live from the comfort of your home or car.

The Interview

Lisa Skibba and Tami Barber, representatives from Aspirus Riverview Hospital,  joined James J. Malouf for a recent episode of Mid-Day Magazine to discuss this event. In the interview they discussed a bit about the 23 year history and founding of the Lights of Love Tree Lighting Ceremony. When discussing the meaning behind the event they explained that many people have made this part of their own tradition. Saying that they have seen some families returning year after year. Each light is purchased for $3, and is representative of a loved one that has passed, or to honor people fighting serious health conditions.

Malouf shared his personal experience with this event. He stated that his own family has dedicated lights in remembrance of their own lost loved ones. Remembering his first time taking part in the Lights of Love Tree Lighting Ceremony. He explained that much more of the community gathered for it than he expected. Such a large community showing can help those participants feel less alone during a difficult time. The Tree will remain throughout the holiday season for those who wish to visit it. You can see the tree from the riverbank across from Aspirus Riverview Hospital or from the expressway bridge.

Helpful Links

For more information check out the event’s Facebook page here.

The deadline for donation for the tree this year has passed, but you may donate year-round for the next ceremony. Follow this link to their website to access the donation form.

To listen to the interview in full, access it on our website here.