By 1808Delaware
When the holidays end and the decorations come down, there’s always that one tangled strand of lights that doesn’t work anymore. Instead of tossing it in the trash, Delaware County residents have a better option this season.
From November 15 through January 19, 2026, the Recycle Right Holiday String Lights program offers convenient drop-off points for used or burned-out holiday lights. The initiative aims to keep recyclable materials out of landfills and make it easier for families to switch to energy-efficient LED lights.
Where to Drop Them Off
Decorated recycling boxes will be set up at locations throughout the county:
- Ashley Wornstaff Memorial Library, 302 E. High St., Ashley
- Delaware County District Library, all locations
- Delaware City Public Works, 440 E. William St., Delaware
- Delaware Public Health District, 470 S. Sandusky St., Delaware
- Genoa Township Administration Office, 5111 S. Old 3C Highway, Westerville
- Price Farms Organics, 4838 Warrensburg Rd., Delaware
- Sunbury Municipal Building, 9 W. Granville St., Sunbury
- Shawnee Hills Municipal Building, 9484 Dublin Rd., Shawnee Hills
How It Works
Just gather your unwanted string lights—working or not—and drop them into the decorated boxes at any of the listed sites. The materials will be properly recycled rather than ending up in the landfill.
Why It Matters
Programs like this turn small habits into meaningful results. Holiday lights contain copper and other metals that can be reused, and recycling them helps reduce waste during one of the most material-heavy times of the year.
For questions, contact Jenifer Way-Young at (740) 368-1700 or jway-young@delawarehealth.org.
It’s a simple act, but one that keeps Delaware County’s holidays—and environment—a little brighter.
