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It was just after Sunday dinner, probably about 7 p.m., when my parents told my brother, Alec, and I that they were bringing us somewhere special.
Bundled up in our coats and mittens, we piled into my grandfather’s Dodge Durango – a seven-seat vehicle – perfect for our seven-person family between my grandparents, parents, uncle, Alec and me.
There were thermoses of hot chocolate my grandmother made that we enjoyed as we took the short, 20-minute drive from Wilbraham to Springfield.
As we pulled up to the long line of traffic snaking out of Forest Park, Alec and I had no idea what we were about to witness.
At 7-years-old, I was awestruck by the larger-than-life light displays. Poinsettias at least two times my size, white deer miraculously leaping over the car, enormous candles flickering in the distance – it’s safe to say
I was amazed.
I recall gaping at the double decker bus that was traveling through the park near us, thinking how much fun it would be to be out in the open among the lights.
It was dazzling and left a life-long impression.
I cannot count on two hands how many years I have gone back to Bright Nights since. It signals the kick-off to the holidays to me and has been the location of so many special memories with family and friends.
I know I am not alone. Droves of families come to Springfield to view Bright Nights’ lights every year, and this year will be no exception.
Bright Nights celebrates their 30th anniversary this season and kicked off the festivities with their annual Bright Nights Ball – a black-tie affair hosted at MGM Springfield, that brings over 500 people together to raise money for the Spirit of Springfield. I had the pleasure of attending the event for the first time this year, and I was so impressed. Judy Matt, president of the Spirit of Springfield, and her team are second-to-none – and boy do they know how to put on a party.
The little 7-year-old girl who marveled at the lights is still marveling at 29. I never imagined I would be attending a ball to celebrate the very event that helped spark my love for the holiday season.
It’s the season of giving – but loyal readers who know me know I love the gift of an experience with those you love. You never know – the memories you create today with your 7-year-old may be ones they look back on fondly forever.
Happy holidays to all – and as always, thank you for taking the time to pick up and read our publications. We at The Reminder/Go Local are honored to have your support.
Payton North, Executive Editor