Plug pulled on Rock'N Lights in Round Rock
The plug has been pulled on a holiday tradition in Round Rock. The Rock'N Lights, holiday light tour through Old Settlers Park is being replaced with a new event that opens December 1st.
Decorations for what’s called the Hometown Holiday have started going up in downtown Round Rock; from Main Street to Centennial Plaza. The new experience is called Hometown Holiday.
It is designed to provide family fun and also give local businesses some extra green other than garland, according to city spokesperson Kristin Brown.
"So all of the trees are going to be aglow, you are going to have some great selfie spots, be able to stop in, grab a bite at one of our restaurants, and have a great evening here in downtown restaurants,” said Brown.
Back in September, the plug was pulled on the Rock'N Lights - Holiday Light Tour by the city council. It ended a 5-year family tradition. Multiple displays with holiday themes could be viewed by visitors to Old Settlers Park, who paid $15 a car load to drive down a mile long trail.
None of the displays from the tour will be included in the new downtown event.
"There will be a few walk through displays, fun snowflakes and reindeer, but it won’t be what you are used to seeing, in Old Settlers Park, we couldn't bring those displays here because there are tripping hazards, that have to be secured into the ground, and we've got a lot of sidewalk here,” said Brown.
The tunnel of lights- a favorite from the tour is not going dark --- just yet.
It was at the end of the tour and has gotten a new home.
The tunnel has been reassembled, it’s the only part of the old tour that has been put back up. Its relocated to the homestead section of Old Settlers Park.
People who we spoke to say they're willing to give change a chance.
"I think it’s cool that we can take the kids on the strollers and walk through and go at your own pace,” said Michaela Rainey.
The driving tour was popular for people who are not able to walk long distances. City officials say driving through downtown will be allowed. "I’m not sure if I’m disappointed, we'll see what it will look like down here, we enjoyed it out there and I’m sure we will enjoy it here, too,” said David Pauwels.
Residents will have time to decide. The city signed a three year deal with a company to provide most of the lighting. The lights turn on December the 1st. Hometown holiday is free and city officials promise there will be ample parking around the event.
The carnival, next to the Dell Diamond, is still going to be there on select dates.