Five Seasons Lights draws more than 12,000 visitors to McGrath Amphitheatre

By: CBJ News Staff January 19, 2026

More than 12,000 visitors attended the 2025 Five Seasons Lights at McGrath Amphitheatre during its December run, according to VenuWorks of Cedar Rapids.

The free walk-through holiday light display featured visits with Santa and special events throughout the month. Several closures occurred due to cold temperatures and inclement weather.

Twenty local nonprofit organizations greeted guests and collected donations during the event, raising $10,500. QTS provided a matching contribution, bringing the total to $21,100 for participating nonprofits.

“Despite the cold and inclement weather that led to a couple of closures, the 2025 Five Seasons Lights was a success in bringing light and joy to the community,” said Diane Smith, director of marketing and ticketing at VenuWorks, in a release. “Seeing families, friends, and visitors come together to celebrate the season made all the effort worthwhile.”

Participating nonprofits included ASAC, Arc of East Central Iowa, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bridgehaven, Catherine McAuley, Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation, Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity, CPU Class Fundraising, CPU Junior Post Prom, CR Pride, Eastern Iowa Arts Academy, Eastern Iowa Health Center, Families Helping Families, Freedom Festival, Hopeful Mama Foundation, Horizons, Matthew 25, Rockstar Cocker Rescue and Tanager Place.

Farmers State Bank served as presenting sponsor. Additional sponsors included Alliant Energy, Big Grove, Buildings On The Boulevard, BWC Inc., Capital Sanitary, Cedar Rapids Downtown District, Cedar Rapids Tourism, Crystal Group, Eastbank Venue & Lounge, Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, Farmers State Bank, Hawkeye Electric, Holmes Murphy, HOTWORX Cedar Rapids, IBEW Local 405, ImOn Communications, ITC Midwest, Jason Smith Concrete Construction, Kurtz Autism Consulting & Social Coaching, Make-A-Wish, McGrath Dealership, MidAmerican Aerospace, Nelson Electric, NextEra, Old Hickory Manchester, Pepsi, Rapids ESCO Electric, Renew Physical Therapy & Wellness, Transamerica, UFG, KDAT, KZIA, LMCC, KCRG and 3 V Racing.

VenuWorks presents the event in partnership with the City of Cedar Rapids and Cedar Rapids Parks & Recreation Department. Planning is underway for 2026. Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact info@creventslive.com.