The 2023 Festival of Lights at Wappapello Lake raised over $21,000 for public events, including the Independence Day fireworks display. The Friends of Lake Wappapello reported over 40 organizations participated, and volunteers worked 660 hours over all 21 nights. The largest donation night was $2,300. Proceeds from the contest have completely covered this year’s fireworks and will contribute to other events around the lake including Kids Fishing Day, Water Fest and more. These events are co-sponsored by the Army Corps of Engineers.