All Aboard For Tour Of Lights

BRADENTON, FL — The annual tradition of seeing holiday lights by bus is back again this year with Manatee County Area Transit's popular Ted Nowosad Tour of Lights. Buses depart Friday, Dec. 14 and Saturday, Dec. 15 for a 90-minute fun-filled commute through west Bradenton. The ride is free.

"Riders should only bring a non-perishable food item or unwrapped toys for admission," explained MCAT officials. "The food will be donated to local social service networks and the toys will be taken to Toys-for-Tots."

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Officials estimate between 1,500 to 2,000 people will board the special buses during this year's tour. The event was started in 2002 when Manatee resident Ted Nowosad asked county commissioners to help seniors take in the holiday trimmings.

Seating is limited and offered on a first come, first served basis.

If you go, plan to arrive no later than 6:15 p.m. ahead of the 6:30 p.m. departure from Building 29 of State College of Florida. The college is location at 5840 26th St. W.

"Volunteers will collect toys and non-perishable food items before passengers board their bus," officials explained. The buses are provided and operated by MCAT and the Manatee County School District.

Call 941-747-8621 for more information on the event. Click here for information on Manatee County Area Transit.

Photo Courtesy Manatee County Area Transit