It’s an event many look forward to all year and one which brings the community together in true holiday spirit. Light Up Night will be held on Main Street Bridgeport, 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1.
“It’s hard to believe it’s that time of the year again. Light Up Night has been called ‘magical’ or ‘like a Hallmark movie,’ and I couldn’t agree more,” said ABB President Jaclyn Rominger. “Every year the event keeps getting better and better with more business set-ups, characters, entertainers, etc. We are always trying to think of ways to improve upon the previous year’s event, and I think we succeed every time!”
Member businesses of the Associated Businesses of Bridgeport will set up festive pop-up tents from which they will disburse free holiday treats. Other highlights include live entertainment and the lighting of the city tree at Benedum Civic Center. Making the moment even more magical are the fireworks which will take place simultaneously. And, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus will make their official entrance, sticking around after the event to take photos with residents.
The Bridgeport High School Jazz Band and elementary school choirs are again invited to help launch the event. Vocalists Josh Oldaker and Ben DeFazio, who have traditionally taken part in Light Up Night, will return in 2022. New to this year’s lineup is Key to Adam, an instrumental duo that has become quite popular across West Virginia. Based in Upshur County, the duo features Kiara Williams on violin/fiddle and Adam Moyer, on finger-style guitar. Saint Mary’s Choir, under the direction of Maria Dupont Ammons, will also provide holiday music. Planning is still underway, so more entertainers may be added.
Also new to this year’s Light Up Night will be strolling fictional characters, who will interact with kids and be available for photo ops. Expected to show up for the grand event are The Grinch, Jack Skellington Santa, Belle, Elsa, and other Disney princesses.
Light Up Night is made possible due to the collaboration between city entities. The City of Bridgeport, Bridgeport Parks and Recreation, Bridgeport Police Department, and the ABB work together to make the event something special for the city.
ABB businesses always come through, creating a holiday atmosphere, and giving away everything from hot chocolate and cider to candy, donuts, and cheese, as well as light-up novelties, ornaments, and more.
Member businesses may download a registration form HERE. Any businesses which pay business and occupation tax to the City of Bridgeport is eligible to join the ABB. Download a membership application HERE.
Photo of the 2021 event are by Joe LaRocca.