Allentown’s beloved nightly illumination event, Lights in the Parkway, was abruptly shut down this Sunday, not because of snow but due to significant vandalism.
Incident Details
Officials reported that vandals pushed portable toilets into the river, bent light poles and posts, and crushed hundreds of light bulbs that normally illuminate the evening. The damage was extensive enough that the parks team had to halt the attraction on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025.
Impact on the Event
The cancellation means that attendees who had planned to enjoy the glowing spectacle on Sunday will not have the opportunity to do so. The city is uncertain whether the lights will return on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, or remain closed for a longer period.
Response and Next Steps
Allentown officials are currently assessing the full extent of the damage. They have promised to provide an update soon as they determine how much repair work is needed. In the meantime, the event remains closed.
Ticket Holder Information
Those who purchased tickets for Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, should:
- Call the parks office at 610‑437‑7757.
- Email [email protected].
The parks office will handle refunds or rescheduling details.

Call for Witnesses
Anyone with information about the vandalism is encouraged to:
- Contact the Allentown Police Department at 610‑437‑7753.
- Submit anonymous tips through the provided link.
The city hopes to identify those responsible and prevent future incidents.
Key Takeaways
- Allentown cancels Lights in the Parkway due to vandalism: port‑potties dumped in river, light poles bent, hundreds of bulbs crushed.
- Ticket holders should reach out to the parks office for refunds or rescheduling.
- Authorities are seeking witnesses to help investigate the damage.
The city remains committed to restoring the event’s glow as soon as repairs are completed.

