Light Fight 2025: Keeping the Spirit of Christmas Alive and Bright

What began as a friendly neighborhood competition five years ago has grown into one of Warren County’s most cherished holiday traditions, and this year, Light Fight 2025 shone with more purpose, more sparkle, and more heart than ever before.

With 38 festive displays lighting up homes and businesses across the region, the annual Christmas light contest wrapped up with an emotional and laughter-filled awards ceremony on January 1 at Downtown Local. But even before the first prize was handed out, something special had already happened: this year’s Light Fight helped light the way for families in need.

A New Kind of Tour — With a Mission

At the heart of this year’s evolution was a new partnership between Light Fight founder Lori Oaks, of Lori Loves Homes, and Pat Moore, chairperson of Bridge of Hope Greater Warren. Together, they introduced the Shine the Light Tour, a guided van tour that allowed residents to enjoy the most dazzling displays without ever having to drive.

Two tours rolled out on December 13, with the help of Dynamic Life Ministries, which donated vehicles and drivers, ensuring that 100% of ticket proceeds went to support homeless families through Bridge of Hope.

“We wanted to offer a new experience,” Moore said. “But more than that, we wanted to remind people that the holidays are about connection, compassion, and creating memories that matter.”

From s’mores and hot chocolate by the fire pit to seeing the lights together, the Shine the Light Tour brought a sense of shared wonder and raised funds for a cause close to the hearts of both organizers.

And the Winners Are…

The awards ceremony, hosted by Lori Oaks, was equal parts heartfelt and humorous. As families nibbled on treats and gathered to celebrate, Oaks made sure every participant felt appreciated—even those who didn’t walk away with a check.

Best Business Display: Heritage Hall, led by April Gugino, shines bright—using holiday spirit to bring joy to residents and the wider community.

Third Place: Cassandra Campos and her children created a joyful family display that captured hearts and earned them a well-deserved spot among this year’s top Light Fight winners.

Second Place – Residential Display: Robert Look welcomed visitors with lights, smiles, and steaming cups of hot cocoa, earning this year’s second-place award.

First Place: With almost 100,000 lights and years of dedication, Dean and Susan Griffith lit up 510 Windy Ridge Road and the spirit of the season.

“If I had my way, I’d give you all $1,000,” she joked. “But instead, I made you a Front Royal Light Fight Recovery Kit, complete with hand lotion, lip balm, hot cocoa, and my magnet. If you’re ever ready to upgrade your decorating space, I know a good Realtor.”

This year’s winners included:

• Lucky Lights Drawing: Joseph Dodson, 718 W 11th Street
• Best Business Display: Heritage Hall (#2), April Gugino
• Third Place: Cassandra Campos (#22), 718 W 14th Street(#28), 86 Laura Lane
• Second Place: Robert Look (#28), 86 Laura Lane
• Fan Favorite: Kenzie Kidwell (#20), 512 Southern Drive
• First Place: Dean & Susan Griffith (#34), 510 Windy Ridge Road

The Griffiths, who’ve won in past years, impressed again with almost 100,000 lights and a creative design meant to evoke a fireworks display, Susan’s favorite. Asked where they store it all, Dean laughed: “We had to buy a new outbuilding. And now, we’re running out of room again.”

Kenzie Kidwell took home Fan Favorite honors after a record number of votes poured in online. And April Gugino of Heritage Hall moved the crowd when she explained that their prize money would go toward activities and essentials for residents, many of whom lack family support.

More Than Just Lights

While the decorations dazzled, Oaks made clear that Light Fight has always been about more than just bulbs and inflatables.

“This is about bringing people together,” she said. “You don’t need a massive house or thousands of lights. Creativity counts. Kindness counts. And showing up for your neighbors counts.”

That spirit extended to the volunteers and partners who made it all possible: from Quality Title, Green to Ground Electrical, and C&C Frozen Treats, to new sponsors like Tidewater of the Valley Roofing and LegalShield, the event was powered by small businesses with big community hearts.

Special shout-outs also went to those who helped with logistics, promotion, and production: Royal Examiner, Amanda Settle of National Media Services, Inc., Teeka Branham and her team, Megan DiGiorlando, and Lori’s husband, Greg Oaks, who quietly handled behind-the-scenes work.

What’s Next for 2026?

With another successful year wrapped, Oaks is already thinking ahead.

“My dream is to eventually have whole streets competing,” she said. “Imagine blocks and blocks of lights, neighbors joining forces, and the whole town getting involved.”

With support growing each year—and with new elements like the Shine the Light Tour—there’s no doubt Light Fight is evolving into one of the region’s most joyful and meaningful traditions.

“People don’t just come for the lights,” Oaks said. “They come for the feeling. That sense that this is our community, and we’re all part of something brighter.”