ODNR and Great Ohio Lodges to Host Statewide Drone Show on September 12

Story and images courtesy of Ohio Department of Natural Resource

OHIO -- he Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with Great Ohio Lodges, invites visitors to experience “Remember, Lights in the Sky” on Saturday, September 12. Nine state park lodges will host this one-of-a-kind evening where at 9 p.m. a synchronized illuminated drone show will light up the night sky across Ohio.

This special statewide event honors America’s 250th anniversary, accompanied by a solemn patriotic tribute marking the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Families, friends, and communities throughout Ohio are encouraged to come together for a night of reflection, gratitude, and celebration.

“Whether you’re joining us for the drone show, exploring the parks, or enjoying the many activities offered at our lodges, we hope you take this opportunity to experience the very best of Ohio State Parks,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “There is truly something for everyone, and we invite visitors from across the state to be part of this unforgettable evening.”

Each participating lodge will host a full day of activities—most of them free and open to the public. Visitors can also explore the state parks surrounding each lodge, enjoying trails, lakes, wildlife, and the outdoor recreation opportunities that make Ohio State Parks a top-rated destination.

Event details for each location can be found at the links below:

• Burr Oak State Park Lodge: https://www.stayburroak.com/about/events/drone-show-remember-lights-in-the-sky
• Deer Creek State Park Lodge: https://www.deercreekparklodge.com/events/drone-show-remember-lights-in-the-sky
• Hueston Woods State Park Lodge: https://www.huestonwoodslodge.com/events/drone-show-remember-lights-in-the-sky
• Hocking Hills State Park Lodge: https://www.hockinghillsparklodge.com/about/events/drone-show-remember-lights-in-the-sky
• Mohican State Park Lodge: https://www.mohicanlodge.com/about/events/drone-show-remember-lights-in-the-sky
• Maumee Bay State Park Lodge: https://www.maumeebaylodge.com/about/events/drone-show-remember-lights-in-the-sky
• Punderson State Park Manor: https://www.pundersonmanor.com/about/events/drone-show-remember-lights-in-the-sky
• Salt Fork State Park Lodge: https://www.saltforkparklodge.com/about/events/drone-show-remember-lights-in-the-sky
• Shawnee State Park Lodge: https://www.shawneeparklodge.com/about/events/drone-show-remember-lights-in-the-sky

“We’re excited for visitors to see this incredible drone show and to experience everything our lodges have planned throughout the day,” said Randy Grismer of Great Ohio Lodges. “Our teams have worked hard to create meaningful, family‑friendly experiences, and we look forward to providing a memorable celebration for guests of all ages.”

The synchronized show—“Remember, Lights in the Sky”—will serve as the evening’s finale at 9 p.m. at each lodge, offering a powerful visual tribute to service, sacrifice, and the nation’s enduring spirit as illuminated drones take to the sky.

Ohioans are welcome to visit one of the nine participating lodges, explore the surrounding state park, and take part in this extraordinary statewide moment.

Recognized as the No. 1 state park system in America with the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 76 state parks and waterways.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

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