On December 1st, Baton Rouge came alive with holiday cheer as the PERETZ FOUNDATION proudly joined the city in hosting the annual Festival of Lights—a dazzling celebration of unity, creativity, and seasonal joy.
Hundreds gathered in North Boulevard Town Square to witness the lighting of the city’s majestic 35-foot Christmas tree, led by Mayor Sharon Weston Broome. The countdown sparked a breathtaking display of fireworks, illuminating the downtown skyline and setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
🎅 A Visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus
Arriving in festive style courtesy of the Baton Rouge Fire Department, Santa and Mrs. Claus delighted children and families alike. With a twinkle in his eye, Santa reminded everyone to stay on their best behavior—before leading the crowd in a joyful rendition of Jingle Bells, thanks to emcee Elizabeth Vowell of WAFB.
🎶 A Celebration of Arts & Community
The night was filled with performances by local school arts groups and choirs on the Community Stage, showcasing the incredible talent of Baton Rouge’s youth. Guests played in the snow, glided across the ice skating rink outside the Raising Cane’s River Center, and enjoyed hands-on activities at the Downtown Library.
The evening ended with dancing to the high-energy sounds of the Soul Jukebox All-Star Band, bringing together families, neighbors, and visitors in a shared celebration of light, music, and togetherness.
💫 Our Commitment
At the PERETZ FOUNDATION, we believe that cultural events like the Festival of Lights are more than entertainment—they’re opportunities to build connection, celebrate diversity, and create lasting memories. We’re honored to help bring joy to our community and shine a light on the power of the arts.
The air crackled with anticipation, a vibrant chill hinting at the holiday season ahead, as the annual Festival of Lights officially ignited the festive spirit last night. Thousands gathered, bundled against the crisp evening, to witness the spectacular transformation of downtown into a glittering wonderland, marking the unofficial kickoff to the most wonderful time of the year.
From the moment the countdown concluded and the switch was flipped, a collective gasp swept through the crowd. The main square exploded in a symphony of luminescence, with towering trees draped in thousands of twinkling LED lights, their branches shimmering like diamond dust. Iconic buildings were bathed in ever-changing hues, projected patterns dancing across their facades, depicting snowflakes, reindeers, and intricate festive designs.
“It’s absolutely breathtaking every year, but this feels extra special,” remarked Sarah Chen, attending with her two children who were wide-eyed at the dazzling display. “It really makes you feel like the holidays are here. The kids have been talking about it for weeks!”
The Festival of Lights, now in its tenth year, has grown into a cherished tradition, drawing visitors from across the region. This year’s event boasted several new attractions, including an interactive light tunnel where visitors could walk through a kaleidoscope of colors, and a whimsical projection mapping show that brought local historical landmarks to life with animated holiday narratives.
Mayor Thompson, who officiated the lighting ceremony, spoke enthusiastically about the event’s power to unite the community. “The Festival of Lights is more than just a beautiful display; it’s a testament to our community spirit,” she stated. “It brings people together, fosters joy, and reminds us of the magic of the holiday season. It’s truly an honor to see so many smiling faces here tonight.”
The dazzling displays will remain illuminated nightly from 5 PM to 10 PM throughout the holiday season, offering ample opportunity for families, friends, and visitors to experience the magic. Special events, including live music performances and themed nights, are planned for the coming weeks.
As families dispersed, their faces aglow from the lingering light and the warmth of shared experience, it was clear the Festival of Lights had once again succeeded in its mission. The holidays have officially arrived, ushered in by a glorious cascade of light and a renewed sense of community cheer.
