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Where to recycle unwanted holiday lights in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana

holiday lights
Dzenina Lukac
/
Pexels

'Tis the season... to drop off any broken or otherwise unwanted holiday lights for free recycling.

In 2020, Cohen Recycling expanded its holiday light recycling program across the Tri-State, drawing in 26,475 pounds of lights.

The program first started with Great Parks of Hamilton County seven years ago and has seen donations go up ever since.

What you need to know before you drop off

Collection goes through Feb. 1, 2023, and during park or business hours. Most bins will be under a shelter and there should be signage to direct you.

All kinds of string lights are accepted, including traditional and LED-style bulbs. But regardless of the type of bulb, Cohen can recycle the plastic.

This is a "string only" event — meaning all other kinds of holiday lights, such as light projectors and lighted inflatables, can instead be dropped off at a Cohen Recycling Center for disposal.

Most important is "to bring them loose." That means do not drop off lights in boxes or bags, as that will only slow down the recycling process. Cohen also asks that you please make sure any batteries are removed.

Where to take your lights

If you can't find a location near you, you can go to any Cohen Recycling location and drop-off any unwanted lights.

Updated: November 30, 2021 at 1:50 PM EST
This article was first published on Oct. 30, 2020 and has been updated.
Jennifer Merritt brings 20 years of "tra-digital" journalism experience to WVXU.