Now until March 21st, experience an immersive light display at Waterford Oaks County Park that pays homage to those we’ve lost to the COVID-19 pandemic, gives thanks to the people who have continued to risk their lives in the face of the coronavirus to keep us healthy and safe, and expresses gratitude for all of those who have helped us through the last year during the #OaklandTogether COVID-19 Tribute Walk.
Walking through the Radiant Path, each candle represents 10 lives, lighting the way forward.
The Tribute Walk will will take place from 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. each night and provides a memorable experience to mark one year after the first case of coronavirus was reported in Oakland County. The illuminated, paved path will follow a half-mile journey through sections focused on remembering those we’ve lost and giving us a glimpse of what we have to be thankful for as we move forward together past the pandemic.
“We need this moment to remember and express our feelings as a community after enduring a year of pandemic challenges, heartbreak, and even instances of inspiration. The Tribute Walk will remind us of the lives who shine brightly whether they are still with us or have passed and will give us a glimpse of what we have to be thankful for as we move forward together past the pandemic.”
County Executive David Coulter
Oakland County and Oakland County Parks and Recreation have partnered with Bluewater Technologies Group, Inc., the creators of Glenlore Trails, to bring together this light display and interactive Tribute Walk. Bluewater of Wixom is a woman-owned company that produces live events and AV experiences for strong brands.
Memories of Light
A sphere of light for each member of our community lost to the COVID-19 pandemic. Enduring in our thoughts, forever in our hearts, they give us the strength, courage and grace to carry on.
Ticket holders also are welcome to contribute to three tribute displays outside of Lookout Lodge each night the Tribute Walk is open. People can post photos of loved ones they have lost and add their name to a large Yellow Heart with Black Ribbon sign, the symbol for those lost to COVID-19. They can also write messages of gratitude for frontline workers on a large green heart.
After the Tribute Walk, these tributes will become lasting memorials that will travel around public locations on the Oakland County government campus.
Brandy Boyd, from Oakland County Parks and Recreation, with her family and friends as she signs her parents’ names on the COVID-19 Memorial.
Brandy Boyd, a Parks and Recreation employee who lost both her parents to COVID-19, helped make sure that this tribute walk would be possible.
“I’m thankful that I have had the opportunity to share my parents’ story, our story as a struggling family and have an opportunity to honor all the lives lost to COVID. This walk symbolizes so much. The moving tribute to lives lost and the hope for a brighter future. This year hasn’t been easy for anyone, but it has been extremely difficult for those grieving. This is an opportunity for everyone to take a walk-through nature and really reflect on this last year”
Brandy Boyd, Oakland County Parks and Recreation
The paved path is a little over 1/2 mile long and will be maintained throughout the experience. For those who would like to attend, but need additional assistance, please contact Jeremy Brown at 248-326-4900 or waterfordoakspark@oakgov.com to arrange special accommodations including a ride along the path on a golf cart.
Dogs are welcome, so long as they are on a 6′ leash for the duration of your visit. As a reminder, owners must pick up after their pets. Please bring supplies to ensure you are able to do so.
A group walking through the Radiant Path
To sign up for the Tribute Walk at Waterford Oaks, 1702 Scott Lake Rd, Waterford Township, pre register on Eventbrite so we can get an accurate count and ensure we are keeping gatherings at appropriate sizes. Please note that tickets are required prior to arrival, so we may ensure proper social distancing.
The ticket price allows us to cover the cost required to run the event. Bluewater Technologies has also generously agreed that the remainder of the ticket price will be donated to charity.
To maintain social distancing protocols, tickets will be issued in half-hour increments through 9:30 p.m. Upon check-in you will have your ticket scanned, and your temperature taken. If you have an elevated temperature you will be asked to return home.
Every night starting at 7:30 p.m., watch a live view of the tribute walk here.
Find additional ways to participate in the Oakland Together COVID-19 Tribute, visit www.oakgov.com/covid/tribute and share your tribute stories on social media using #OaklandTogether and #COVID19Tribute.
Follow along with Oakland County on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, and YouTube using #OaklandCounty, or visit our website for news and events year-round.