The Story of Northern Lights Drone Shows
When we opened Bear Paw Adventure Park in 2019, our vision was simple: to bring something fun, unique, and memorable to our community. A place to unwind on sunny summer days, whether lounging on the sand or bouncing across Adventure Island’s water obstacle course.
But as the sun set, we noticed a growing desire from our guests: more magic, more memories… after dark. Inspired, we began dreaming up a way to extend the adventure into the night.
For those who’ve experienced our Christmas Carnival of Lights, you’ve seen the incredible artistry of our IT team, led by our IT Director, Andy. Known for orchestrating music and lights into holiday wonder, Andy became the natural choice to pioneer our next big idea: a nighttime drone show.
His research led to a breathtaking possibility—drones painting the night sky with synchronized lights and music, telling stories in midair. Our team embraced the vision, and in summer 2021, Northern Lights Drone Shows took flight. Fifty drones debuted with a patriotic spectacle set to “God Bless the USA,” stirring goosebumps and giggles as a red solo cup danced and tears as an American flag waved proudly overhead.
Since then, our shows have grown in creativity and scale—each one themed, from “Through the Decades” to “Christmas in July.” Though licensing limited us early on, demand kept growing.
By 2024, we had named our drone show capabilities “Northern Lights Drone Shows,” and it officially became a traveling show, recognized for our exceptional designers, skilled pilots, and passionate team. From a guillotine transforming into a wine glass over Sonoma Valley, California, to palm trees flying over Miami, Florida, every show is crafted to reflect the heart of the community for which it’s created.
On April 26 of 2025, we’re going to be celebrating the opening of Randy’s Thrill Hill, our Super Mega Slide, at Bear Paw Adventure Park. And instead of the 50-drone show, we’ll be celebrating with a 650-drone show—the largest ever in the history of Wisconsin. We’ve come a long way, and we’re hoping everyone will join us for the excitement of a show with that level of 3D detail and imagery.
