DUBOIS – The Downtown DuBois Revitalization Group (DDRG), in partnership with First Commonwealth Bank, hosted the annual Brighten the Night event Friday at the DuBois City Park.
Brighten the Night is DuBois’ kick-off to the holiday season. It consists of events, such as the lighting of the Christmas tree, cards for the troops, a kid’s craft and of course, a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
While families arrived, they were greeted by members of First Commonwealth Bank who ensured everyone was warm by giving out scarves. They also gave out glow sticks, coloring books and crayons.
Afterward, they proceeded to the amphitheater stage, where they were served hot cocoa, created a holiday craft and signed cards for the troops.
Kids were also given elf hats and jingle bells upon arrival, not knowing that one of the bells was marked specially to select which of them would light the tree.
After checking their bells, it was found that 4-year-old Alli Labue won the honor. When asked if how that sounded, she responded with an enthusiastic “Um Hm.”
After the tree lighting, a few carols were sung. The final carol, which welcomed Santa and Mrs. Claus, was “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” After the initial excitement of seeing Santa, kids quickly lined up for their chance to sit with him and get their picture taken.
In exchange for the photo, families were asked to donate a food item to the local food pantry either at the event, or when they picked up the photo.
As the event wound down, Redevelopment Director and Main Street Manager Joe Mitchell stated that “…it was a good turnout considering the weather.”