Manatee County Area Transit's (MCAT) popular Tour of Lights returns Friday, Dec. 13. The 90-minute ride through local neighborhoods in west Bradenton is free and open to the public.
Riders should only bring a non-perishable food item or unwrapped toys for admission. The food will be donated to local social service networks and the toys will be taken to Toys-for-Tots.
More than 1,000 people take part in the annual tradition that dates back to 2002 when Manatee resident Ted Nowosad asked County Commissioners to help seniors see the sights of the season.
Seating is limited and offered on a first come, first served basis. Passengers should arrive no later than 6:15 p.m. and should be ready for departure by 6:30 p.m. at Building 29 of State College of Florida, 5840 26th St. W. Volunteers will collect toys and non-perishable food items before passengers board their bus.
All buses are provided and operated by Manatee County/MCAT and the Manatee County School District.
For more information on the 2018 Tour of Lights, call (941) 747-8621. For more information on Manatee County Area Transit, visit www.mymanatee.org/mcat and follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ridemcat
For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manatee.county.fl and on Twitter, @ManateeGov.