Event staff on Oct. 28 previewed Redmond Lights 2025 and summarized the 2025 events season, including Derby Days and permitting changes.

Laurel Williams and events staff said Redmond Lights will run Dec. 6–Jan. 5 with light installations and temporary public art in Downtown Park and a new activation in Esterra Park. Staff estimated a $135,000 cost for Redmond Lights and reported $68,000 in sponsorships so far; they said additional sponsorships and grant support have reduced the net cost to the city. The opening event is scheduled for Dec. 6 from 4–8 p.m. and will include free activities such as a kids’ light fashion show, Family Light Promenade, live performances and community booths; staff emphasized accessibility and culturally diverse programming.

Events staff also reported 2025 Derby Days results: they estimated more than 35,000 attendees, about 500 kids in the bike parade, an 88.8% "likely to attend again" survey response, and $109,000+ in sponsorships. Staff highlighted new cooling centers and a foam event this year to improve attendee comfort and said the parade used only human, electric vehicle or RNG-powered entries.

Staff said permitting-process changes implemented this year improved application completeness and event-producer accessibility. Council members suggested additional parade promotion and potential celebrity or local-sports partnerships to increase curb attendance and recommended highlighting the Esterra Park activation in outreach.

Events staff said they will continue outreach to local hotels, tourism partners and community groups to promote Redmond Lights and will monitor budget and sponsorship commitments as planning continues.