3…2…1… With a flip of a switch, downtown Fort Wayne has come to life with the glow of festive displays. As tens of thousands of attendees looked on, the annual Downtown Improvement District’s Night of Lights event on Nov. 27 certainly did not disappoint.
Starting just before 6 p.m., the lighting of the Fort Wayne History Center kicked off several lightings within the downtown area. To allow spectators to view as many light displays as possible, countdowns were conducted in 20-minute increments.
Leading up to the lighting of the I&M wreath display, the Indiana Michigan Power Center plaza was full of live entertainment, festive bucket truck photo opportunity and free hot chocolate. Stephanny Smith, I&M’s Director of Communications, led the countdown and with help from SCAN Fort Wayne, the switch was flipped to illuminate the large red and green display.
Stop by the I&M plaza now through the end of December to see this display lit up as we look to power festive memories and traditions this holiday season.
Wreath Fast Facts:
- The wreath is 32 feet in diameter and weighs 3.5 tons
- Displayed from 1937 to 1958 (except during WWII)
- Features 4,000 red bulbs, 2,800 green bulbs and 1,200 white bulbs
- Initially displayed at the northeast corner of Calhoun Street and Washington Boulevard before moving to One Summit Square
See also: 8,000 LED Bulbs to Fuel Long Lasting Holiday Tradition