DES MOINES, Iowa — One street in the Beaverdale neighborhood is known for its Christmas display and they ask that when you come, you bring a food donation.

The lights display in Beaverdale is so impressive that people will brave the cold for a run through the community.

Put on by Fleet Feet, the Holiday Lights Run takes runners around the neighborhood to experience the lights during a three-mile trek.

While the cold and icy conditions might deter most people from visiting, one runner says it just added to the experience.

“The lights were beautiful, and it was slightly treacherous, but, you know, it was doable,” said Cain Kremitzki, a runner in Wednesdays’ event.

Several families were excited to meet the visitors and shared their stories of decorating the house and the work that goes into the spectacular displays.

“She told us a story about her friend that climbed straight up through the trunk to get the lights up on the top and then came down smelling like pine and covered in sap,” said Kremitzki.

One of the houses uses the extra traffic as a way to bring in donations.

Located on Ashby Avenue, this is Julie Marks fifth year collecting money and food donations for the Food Bank of Iowa.

The Marks family and a crew of volunteers hand out candy canes, takes photos, and chat with people passing by.

One volunteer was thrilled to see just how many people drove or walked by to drop off donations.

“A lot of them come by and they’re donating money or dropping off nonperishable goods for the Foodbank. People, they love to come out and see the lights,” said Ryan Russell. “Of course it’s beautiful, but I think they want to give back to a good cause as well.”

Those who don’t have cash or food to donate can also scan a code and donate through Venmo.

Donations will be accepted at 4316 Ashby Avenue till December 27th from 6 to 9 p.m.

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