WMOM/WHCH's Chris Nicholas announces Festival prize winners and awards to community non-profits.

Hit Radio Media's WMOM-FM/WHCH-FM (Ludington) has announced that it raised $18,469.71 with its "Ludington Area Festival of Lights," held from November 27 through December 29.  The announcement came January 9 during a presentation at Safe Harbor Credit Union in Ludington. The presentation, attended by more than 100, recognized business sponsors, volunteers, community members, contestants as well as students from Gateway to Success Academy and Ludington High School Industrial Arts Class.  A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of checks to four local non-profits, who together received 50% of the gate proceeds.  Cash awards were also presented to winners of the festival's interactive competitions, which encouraged creativity and community engagement.

Owner and General Manager Chris Nicholas told the MAB that he had a vision of creating a holiday experience that would unite the Ludington community and this year’s Festival of Lights turned that vision into a reality. From its inception to its execution, Nicholas led the charge, organizing an event that captured the hearts of over 20,000 visitors and showcased Ludington’s generosity, creativity, and collaborative spirit.

The effort took a village of volunteers, businesses, and organizations to bring it to life. Nicholas said that local companies like At The Peak Roofing played a pivotal role, taking responsibility for decorating the trees and office area at the heart of the Festival, while Nicholas and his team designed and created the entire first and second half of the drive thru. This beautifully lit centerpiece seamlessly connected the first half of the event to the second, creating a striking transition that visitors loved.

Along with the support of local companies, a sizable contribution from the radio stations ensured the success of the Festival. The stations purchased all the items used during the event so they remain in the Ludington community, allowing the Festival to grow and improve each year with new additions. This collaboration ensures the Festival will continue to be a cherished holiday tradition for years to come.

The money was collected through an admission fee to the Festival as well as merchandise sales such as hooded sweatshirts bearing the Festival’s logo.

“As we look back on this year’s Festival, we are overwhelmed by the generosity, creativity, and community spirit that made it all possible,” said Nicholas. “This event was a dream brought to life, and seeing the smiles, hearing the stories, and celebrating the connections made it all worth it. We can’t wait to grow this Festival even more in 2025.”