The Greensboro community is eagerly preparing for the upcoming Festival of Lights, set to take place on Friday, Dec. 1. This beloved annual event, presented by Allegacy Federal Credit Union as part of Downtown in December, promises an enchanting evening filled with live performances, delicious food, holiday shopping, a delightful community sing-along, and of course, the highly anticipated tree lighting. Families can look forward to a variety of family-friendly activities designed to usher in the holiday season with warmth and cheer.
Zack Matheny, the President and CEO of Downtown Greensboro, expressed his excitement for the event, stating, There is no better display of the spirit of our downtown community than neighbors standing shoulder to shoulder in our city center filled with holiday cheer at the annual Festival of Lights. He further emphasized that Downtown Greensboro aims to transform into a fun and family-friendly seasonal destination throughout December, inviting everyone to come and enjoy the festivities.
The Festival of Lights will officially kick off at 5 p.m. in LeBauer Park with Piedmont Winterfest and the Vendor Market. Festival-goers can browse through a wide array of vendors offering unique holiday gifts and treats. Then, at 5:30 p.m., the main program will commence in Center City Park. The evening will begin with a captivating performance by the N.C. A&T Fellowship Gospel Choir, followed by a community sing-along featuring the Drew Hays Five and Diana Tuffin at 6:30 p.m.
The highlight of the festival will be the lighting of the community tree at 6:56 p.m. in Center City Park. The magnificent tree, adorned with beautiful lights and decorations, will illuminate the surrounding area, spreading joy and festive spirit.
Following the tree lighting, attendees can take a leisurely stroll down Elm Street from Friendly Avenue to Lewis Street. Along the way, they will be treated to musical performances from various groups, including the Grimsley Madrigal Singers, The Reids, Greensboro Tarheel Chorus, and many more. Traditional favorites like Mrs. Claus, Season’s Best Carolers, and The Silver Drummer Girl will also be strolling throughout the festival area, providing delightful entertainment for all.
This year, the Festival of Lights introduces an exciting new addition — visitors can get tinsel (fairy) hair in Hamburger Square, where heated igloos will be set up for warmth and comfort. Festival-goers can expect to be wowed by an array of other entertainment options, such as circus performers, Sumo Santas, live ice-sculpting, face painters, balloon twisters, and mechanical reindeer.
For those in search of a winter wonderland experience, Hamburger Square at Elm and McGee Street will offer a snowy ambiance, complete with a light show by Greensboro Holiday Lights, where visitors can enjoy a magical walk and roast marshmallows. Meanwhile, the South End will feature Santa Claus, The Worship Place Band, and karaoke, ensuring that the good times continue. Don’t forget to visit Peppermint Alley, the newest addition located beside Boxcar Bar and Arcade, which provides the perfect backdrop for holiday selfies.
In addition to the festive activities, downtown businesses will be open, offering fantastic shopping and dining experiences for visitors. A variety of food trucks, including Jamaica Coast, NutNbutLuv, and Duck Donuts, among others, will also be on hand to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Mark your calendars for Friday, Dec. 1, and join the Greensboro community in celebrating the Festival of Lights. This magical event promises to fill your heart with joy, bring neighbors together, and create lasting memories for all. It’s a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season, so don’t miss out on the excitement and cheer that awaits you downtown.
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