It's fun, free and the perfect way to start off the holidays. Baton Rouge's Downtown Festival of Lights takes place from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. There's lots to offer, so these three things will give you some direction.
LIGHT 'EM UP: The city's 35-foot Christmas tree on North Boulevard, strewn with half a million sparkling lights, will be lit, followed by a fireworks show over the Mississippi River.
The countdown with Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broom will begin at 6 p.m. The optimum spot for viewing is in Town Square facing the Christmas tree and the river.
LET IN SNOW!: Families can play in 10 tons of real snow at Snow Village in Town Square across from the River Center Branch Library. In addition, a Rockefeller Center-style skating rink will be set up on the first floor of the River Center Plaza.
"Just like in NYC, festivalgoers can stand around the balcony and look down at the children skating on the plaza," the Downtown Development District says. Note: Snow Village begins at 4 p.m. for ages 5-15, and skating also starts at 4 p.m., ages 5-10 only.
GET ARTSY: The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge offers Santa's Gift Shop at Rhorer Plaza. Local artists will sell handmade crafts.
The festival also will include a bake sale, hot chocolate and multiple food vendors.
For more information, visit downtownbatonrouge.org/discover-downtown/events.
— Judy Bergeron