Bemidji, Minnesota, known for its overtly festive disposition, lived up to its reputation with its 28th annual Night We Light Celebration. As a tradition eclipsing nearly three decades, the event this year featured an eye-catching parade and the debut of a record-breaking light display, despite the chilling subzero temperatures. Detailed by the Bemidji Pioneer, locals wrapped in winter gear lined the streets to watch floats adorned with holiday lights – led by none other than Bemidji State mascot Bucky the Beaver and Santa Claus himself.
This year's standout attraction, billed as “The Greatest Gift Display,” erected in hopes of breaking the world record for the largest digital pixel gift display, was constructed with the help of local businesses and schools. It added a new layer to the already luminous festivities, which saw more than 800,000 lights brightening the city's downtown and various parks. An announcement made by Josh Peterson, Executive Director of the First City of Lights Foundation during the event, shared in the Bemidji Pioneer, invited anyone inspired by the spectacle of light to contribute towards achieving the one million light goal.
Apart from the record-breaking light display, the evening featured other elements of tradition and community engagement. Businesses throughout the downtown area participated in a Christmas Window Display Contest, further adding to the festive visuals. According to LPTV, individuals could cast their ballots for the best window display up until December 18th. Furthermore, a map highlighting Bemidji homes with the most impressive Christmas displays was made available for those interested in extending their holiday lights tour.
The First City of Lights Foundation Secretary Stacy Ness, in a statement obtained by LPTV, emphasized the implementation of safety zones and encouraged spectators to stand behind the ropes for their protection. Furthermore, to avoid disruptions, parking was restricted along the parade route as of 5 p.m. on the day of the event, ensuring that the festivities could proceed without vehicular interference.
The sense of community and tradition was palpable throughout the celebration, as evidenced by Peterson's personal reflection on the significance the event holds for his own family. His acknowledgment of his grandparents' influence and their connection to the very inception of the Night We Light event brought a personal touch to the dazzling communal experience. The night concluded with a reminder of the original message spoken by former mayor Doug Peterson during the first celebration, as quoted in the Bemidji Pioneer: "Tonight we come together to not only celebrate the season but to celebrate light, life and the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas everyone, and may God bless this beautiful and glorious First City of Lights."
