It was almost a decade ago at a meeting of the still relatively new Associated Businesses of Bridgeport when member Brad Ford said he just “threw out an idea” that the group could sponsor. However it happened, another member of the group that was there that night said the idea not only was acted upon, but it stuck.

 

And now, it’s a fast-growing Bridgeport tradition. On the evening of Dec. 4, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the Associated Businesses of Bridgeport will present the 10^th anniversary edition of “Light Up Night.” The event has not only grown into a successful one, it’s one that usually draws thousands of visitors to the downtown.

 

“I was on the board at the inception of the idea, but that’s something we have to give Brad Ford credit for,” said current ABB President Mark Bonamico. “That first one turned out to be absolutely perfect. We had a light snow and a pretty good turnout and it’s just grown from there.”

 

Indeed it has. Ford estimates that the biggest crowds have topped 3,000 to the event.

 

“Even when we’ve had rain we’ve had more than 1,000 people show up,” said Ford.

 

While the ABB always puts its best foot forward in trying to provide a memorable evening, Bonamico said that the 10-year anniversary means the group is looking to make it an evening to remember. And he said the Bridgeport community and beyond can help make that possible.

“We’re looking to have some really special entertainment and we’re looking for some really unique and fresh ideas to go along with what we usually have,” said Bonamico. “Plus, we’re going to try and get all the businesses in the city, whether they’re a member of our group or not, to participate and light up the city as much as possible.”

 

The event features multiple booths set up by businesses and organizations that provide goodies, gifts and other items to those in attendance. The event also features the ceremonial lighting of the city’s Christmas tree purchased by the ABB. Mayor Bob Greer will handle the official duties and, as a general rule, will be joined by Santa Claus on the patio of the Benedum Civic Center. The event generally concludes with a fireworks display.

 

Although planning is still taking place, Bonamico and the rest of the group want to get the word out, get more people involved and have the community anticipating this year’s event as much as possible.  Bonamico is expecting a great evening, but he said he’d be lying if he thought it would get to the point where it’s been over the last few years.

 

“I don’t think in our wildest dreams that the outcome of the event would be as large as it has become. We’re so very pleased that it’s turned out that way,” Bonamico said. “I think it works because the event is a sincere event that helps kick off the holiday season and Christmas season in particular. We’re very blessed that we can have this right in the middle of our community.”

 

The event generally sees U.S Route 50 closed from Virginia Avenue to Second Street. More details on that as they become available.

 

For businesses or other groups looking to help, they can become a sponsor for $500 (that money is due Friday, Oct. 31), have a tent set up where up to 1500 items need to be given up and the group is always looking for volunteers to set up and tear down the scene. Entertainers are needed as well. Main Street businesses interested in outdoor holiday decorations can receive a discounted rate to install them from Mike Conley at K & M Service Company.

 

If  you would like to get more information, volunteer sponsor or just have questions, contact any of the following individuals – Bonamico 304-844-0739; Conley 304-626-5695, Ford at 304-677-5877, Lisa Lang at 304-290-8636, Melinda Lindsey at 304-677-6773 or Doug Marquette at 304-641-4332. Email inquiries can be sent to abbridgeportwv@hotmail.com.

 

Editor's Note: Photos by www.benqueenphotography.com.