Last year, Bridgeport Assistant City Manager Jimmy Smith said he and other city officials were hoping that the first-ever display of luminaries at the Bridgeport Cemetery would draw enough positive response that it could eventually become a city tradition. So far, it appears, so good.

 

Smith confirmed that later today, the second annual luminary display at the Bridgeport Cemetery will take place. Starting at roughly 5 p.m. and into the evening, the City of Bridgeport is inviting the community and members from beyond the local community to view the hundreds of luminaries, being lit in the memory of those that have passed, lining the roadways at the cemetery just off of State Route 131, near U.S. Route 50.

 

In 2013, nearly 350 luminaires were on display. This year, Smith estimates the number could be as high as 400.

 

“We tried to expand it a little bit to the area near the top of the cemetery to give everyone a better view,” said Smith. “It’s worth a few moments of your evening to visit the cemetery.”

 

There is no cost for visiting display. In fact, the purpose isn’t to draw attention to the city. Rather, it’s much nobler, Smith said.

 

“One of the areas that the City leaders have made in past years as part of the City strategic planning goals is to focus on our tribute to the veterans, public servants and anyone else who have helped shape not only this City, but our State and Country,” said Smith. “In addition, during this special time of the year, we want to honor and give thanks to everyone who has been laid to rest at the Bridgeport Cemetery.”

 

The luminaries will go up the main entrance to the cemetery, toward the office and down toward the chapel before existing. There are great views of the city that can be seen while driving.

 

Cemetery staff began putting the luminaries – bags filled with sand that have a candle inside them – throughout the day recently. Smith said the lighting will begin just before 5 p.m. on what is expected to be a dry evening. Smith said they will last until the candles burn out.

 

“I would encourage everyone to take a moment on Thursday to drive by the cemetery to reflect on those who may have left this earth but will forever be in our hearts,” Smith said.