More than 1 million sparkling lights in every shade of the rainbow illuminate the streets from Thanksgiving week through early January during The Big, Bright Light Show in downtown Rochester, Michigan.
“The Big, Bright Light Show was created to draw attention to downtown Rochester as a holiday shopping destination. Over the years, the show has helped us attract new businesses, as well as support existing businesses so they can continue to call downtown home,” says Kristi Trevarrow, Executive Director of the Rochester Downtown Development Authority (DDA). “Additionally, the Show has become a source of pride for our community. Residents and visitors continue to come to Rochester to see the Show and make memories.”
Entering its 19th season, The Big, Bright Light Show is a holiday staple in Rochester. Renowned in Michigan and beyond, over 1 million visitors each year come to admire the dazzling light display that covers storefronts up and down Main Street.
“The Big, Bright Light Show has become part of the fabric of Rochester life, celebrating family, community and tradition in our town,” says Stuart Bikson, Mayor of the City of Rochester. “Downtown Rochester has become a destination for the holidays, and we are proud of our downtown.”
The Big, Bright Light Show kicks off each year with Lagniappe—a family-friendly celebration that marks the unofficial start of the holiday season in downtown Rochester. This year the festivities begin on November 25 at 6:00 pm with support from the Mayor and Channel 7. The event includes live musical performances, Meadow Brook Carolers and fireworks. The lights officially shine starting at 7:00 pm.
“When we hit the switch on The Big, Bright Light Show at Lagniappe and “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams starts to play, it’s almost like downtown is transformed into one of those towns you see in a Hallmark movie,” says Kristi. “The joy from the crowd, the smiles on faces, and the start of memories being made – there’s nothing quite like it.”
Local merchants stay open late for Lagniappe, offering customers “a little something extra” to show their appreciation for supporting them throughout the year.
“Lagniappe is a night for the community to enjoy the company of their loved ones and friends by celebrating the joy of the holiday season,” says Cecilia Viviano, Marketing & Product Development Manager at Viviano Flower Shop. Cecilia says they start decorating their store for the holidays and stocking the shelves with gifts, including fresh floral arrangements, in early November.
During Lagniappe, Viviano usually provides hot beverages for visitors to enjoy and warm up from the cold night. “I have fond memories of happy families coming into our store to warm up from the cold and appreciating the beauty and peace found in our floral arrangements,” Cecilia says. Viviano has the honor of welcoming the crowd to Lagniappe this year.
Hosted by the DDA and presented by Fox Automotive, Lagniappe is a can’t-miss holiday event, and one Rochester residents keep coming back to year after year.
“I have two daughters, ages 2 and 4, and we look forward to making the light show part of our family holiday tradition,” says Rochester resident Erin Vedolich. “The Lagniappe celebration kicks off such a magical time in Rochester. Getting a little something extra from the merchants of downtown Rochester is so special and last year we loved the fireworks!”
Santa Claus also makes a special appearance at Lagniappe each year, and kids have the opportunity to share their wish lists with him from 7:15 to 9:00 pm. “My favorite part of Lagniappe is when Mrs. Claus and I make our way through the crowd to the Main Stage. It is so wonderful to see the children of all ages that have come downtown to see us year after year,” says Santa Claus. “We look forward to leading the crowd in our favorite Christmas carols before we light the town. Rochester is truly magical.”
“It is very cool that the city of Rochester puts so much effort into creating unique experiences for families around the holidays (and year-round). It is really a wonderful community, and I know our children will grow up with special memories of the light show,” says Erin.
There is something magical about 1 million plus glimmering lights taking over Main Street in downtown Rochester. This already quintessential town becomes even more enchanted during The Big, Bright Light Show. “It is really fun to see people from all over coming into Rochester to see the lights,” says Erin. “You can feel the warm hospitality from the local businesses and community. Walking down Main Street with the carolers feels like you are in a Hallmark movie. It's a special experience and becomes something to look forward to each year.”
The Big, Bright Light Show runs from November 25 through January 19 this year—lighting up the sky from 5:00 pm to midnight and transforming Rochester into a can’t-miss holiday destination. Most stores stay open until 9:00 pm Monday through Saturday to accommodate holiday shoppers and everyone coming to see the lights. “We hear from our businesses that 35-40% of their annual sales are during the weeks of The Big, Bright Light Show,” says Kristi.
Whether you are just driving through to admire the lights or spending an evening dining and shopping downtown, The Big, Bright Light Show is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. So put on a festive outfit, grab your friends and family and get ready to be dazzled by the lights, sights and sounds of the season. “The Big, Bright Light Show has become a Rochester tradition, and we plan on keeping this tradition into the future,” says Mayor Bikson.
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“Lagniappe is a night for the community to enjoy the company of their loved ones and friends by celebrating the joy of the holiday season,” says Cecilia Viviano, Marketing & Product Development Manager at Viviano Flower Shop.
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“We look forward to leading the crowd in our favorite Christmas carols before we light the town. Rochester is truly magical.” -Santa Claus