TRAVERSE CITY — The Downtown Traverse City Christmas Tree Lighting and Light Parade is happening this weekend.
“Be prepared for a lot of festive, vibe and a lot of people who are really interested in being a part of that,” says Sara Klebba,” Downtown Development Authority.
The tree is already in place and ready for the weekend. Thousands of people in the community will come together to ring in the holiday season.
“It is very fun. I can tell you the countless stories that customers come in with, and we always love hearing them. And they always talk about our decorations and how beautiful it is in here. And it’s just so fun spreading the joy,” shares Jacob Lacross, Cherry Republic Manager.
The Traverse City Tree Lighting started in 1920s and the light parade started in 2017, keeping with the old and continuing the new, it’s about bringing everyone together.
“Community is really important in connecting to your community, knowing who your neighbors are, connecting over shared experiences That’s what the TC DDA, who’s helping to host this event. Is really all about. It’s about bringing fun and connection and engagement within the community. So, we have a vibrant downtown.,” shares Klebba.
Businesses downtown experience holiday rushes for things like hot cocoa, so people can come and enjoy this view while staying warm.
“We’ve got all of our Christmas decorations out, and our Christmas menu’s been out for about a week. We’ve been trying all the drinks to make really good recommendations, and we’re really excited to share our Christmas cheer with traverse city this weekend,” says Jenna Dent, Espresso Bay Manager.
With expectations to have around 8000 people, businesses are taking the opportunity to keep their doors open a little longer.
“We do have a number of merchants that stay open late for these, events because there are so many people downtown and they want to eat and shop. For example, our volunteer headquarters will be at espresso bay. And they’re staying open past nine, maybe all the way until 10:00 at night, which is a great thing for downtown,” explains Klebba.
The event will begin Saturday at 5:30 p.m. with music from the old town playhouse young company with the tree lighting at 6:00 p.m. featuring Santa Claus as special guest.
“We bring about a sense of joy, especially around the holidays. And what better way to do that than with, Santa and tens or hundreds of thousands of lights,” continues Klebba.
Following the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. the light parade will begin which will feature around 50 floats decorated for the holidays from different organizations and businesses in the community.
To get more information about parking and accessible seating click here.