It is arguably the most anticipated night of the year for many in the Bridgeport Community. And that tradition will continue on Thursday, Dec. 3 as the Associated Businesses of Bridgeport will once again host its annual “Light Up Night” in downtown Bridgeport.

 

The11th annual event, which literally draws thousands of individuals to the closed off section of Main Street in Bridgeport, kicks off at 6 p.m. The big part of the event includes the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree, which is always situated in front of the Benedum Civic Center. The tree lighting takes place at 7 p.m. and the event concludes at 8 p.m.

 

Since its inception, the event has been a hit in warm weather, cold weather, and rainy weather and even with snowflakes flying. Melinda Lindsey, who is on the ABB Board of Directors and serves as the secretary and treasurer, is expecting another big crowd this year.

 

“We don’t know how many we have, but we feel that there are always a couple of thousand individuals that are on hand,” said Lindsey. “Even with a rain, we’re looking at a good crowd, but we’re not even going to think about rain this year.”

 

While much of the event is still in the planning stage, Lindsey confirmed that there will be choral groups from Simpson Elementary, Johnson Elementary and Heritage Christian School. Those groups, she said, will likely begin performances at around 7 p.m.  at the time of the tree lighting.

 

Prior to that, another group that has been a hit will be performing. Lindsey said the Bridgeport High School Jazz Band will entertain the crowd. And throughout the two-hour window, singing by Brandon Leroy and Benjamin DeFazio is on tap.

 

“We’re still finalizing a lot of things, but we’ve got a lot of the big things taken care. Plus, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be out on the street greeting children,” she said.

 

The event typically ends with a massive fireworks display. Lindsey said that hasn’t been finalized yet, but it will be a part of the upcoming event discussion at a meeting planned for next week.

 

“We’ll have more details in the days ahead,” said Lindsey.

 

The event will also see 20 to 30 tents set up, mainly from members of the ABB. A few churches also set up tents, but all the groups hand out free items to the public. There is no charge for anything.

 

“We don’t know yet everything we’re going to have, but we do know it’s going to be a wonderful night,” said Lindsey.

 

If you are interested in becoming a member of the ABB and taking part in the event, contact Doug Marquette. He can be reached via email at marqued1@nationwide.com.

 

Editor's Note: File photos from 2014 by Tyler Maxwell of www.benqueenphotography.com.