SPRINGFIELD, Vt. – Springfield on the Move’s (SOM) Festival of Lights is set for Friday, Nov. 20, from 6-9 p.m., at the Great Hall, located at 100 River Street in Springfield. The Holiday Star Program is helping to promote the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year. Materials for the project were paid for by donations from last year’s event, and the stars are a way to beautify downtown with help from the community.
“The stars are being created by members of the community, and we expect to display more than 35 throughout downtown Springfield,” said Vanessa Rebentisch, executive director of Springfield on the Move. “They’ll range in size from about 3 to 8 feet, and will be placed in shop windows, on buildings, and in the park.”
Installation will happen over the next few weeks, and organizers hope the display brings more people downtown. “Let’s light up downtown Springfield together,” Rebentisch said.
The Festival of Lights is a wonderful opportunity to come together, celebrate the holiday season, and join Springfield on the Move for a magical evening of festive cheer and dazzling decorations. Live music will be provided by Black River Band, along with light fare and drinks provided by Black Rock Steakhouse. Bring cash to join in on a silent auction and raffle, and bid on items and a chance to win prizes. Tickets can be purchased by emailing springfieldonthemove@gmail.com.
Last year, $25,000 was raised, and this year’s goal is to raise $50,000 to establish a permanent endowment for the organization. Past support has already made a difference, helping fill downtown spaces with programming, launch entrepreneur development initiatives, and improve the look of the community through a variety of projects. As a small organization, Springfield on the Move relies heavily on committed sponsors to make this work possible.
Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities for the Festival of Lights are available. To inquire about sponsorship or volunteering, contact Springfield on the Move at the email address above, or call 802-885-1527.