Fireworks will light up the sky behind the Capitol dome tonight to kick off the holidays with Silver Bells in the City.
An electric light parade and the lighting of Michigan’s official holiday tree in front of the Capitol are a few of the attractions at the 17th annual celebration in downtown Lansing.
“Thousands of people gather in a huge crowd and share the spirit of the season,” said Joanne Eason, a spokeswoman for the event.
From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., clowns, a juggler, a capella groups, storytellers, magicians, ice sculptures and horse-drawn wagon rides will be some of the free entertainment scattered throughout the streets and local businesses.
“If you want a good, warm, fuzzy feeling come celebrate with your family and friends,” said Sue Mills, executive director of the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, 425 S. Grand Ave. in Lansing.
The festivity brings the community together, and a lot of people like to bring their families, East Lansing resident Susan Halverson said.
“If it’s nice weather, it would be a good opportunity for families with small children,” she said.
Last year, about 70,000 people attended the event and 100,000 people are expected this year, Mills said.
A 1-year-old reindeer named Noel will ride along the parade route on a 100-foot train decked with white lights. Two other reindeer will also be at the event.
“They are very gentle animals,” said Diana Carpenter, owner of Peacock Road Tree Farm in Laingsburg.
“They are kind of on a loan from Santa just for the Silver Bells.”
Mechanical engineering junior Amy Mergl said she would go enjoy the celebration with her friends.
“It’s free entertainment and college students are broke, so why not go out and have some fun,” she said. “It would also help bring people’s minds off Sept. 11.”
Ed Carpenter, chairman of the electric parade, said those who come out to Silver Bells won’t be disappointed. Eighteen participants will grace the parade, which starts at 6:10 p.m. at the corner of Lenawee Street and South Washington Square.
“If you haven’t seen the lighted parade, you are missing at treat,” Ed Carpenter said.
Free parking will be available in city of Lansing parking ramps, and Capital Area Transportation Authority will provide free shuttle buses to connect all the entertainment sites.
