A winter wonderland returns to Long Beach

Annual Electric Light Parade coming to the West End

Posted

The second annual Electric Light Parade will return to the West End this weekend, a holiday event that is part of an effort to support local businesses still reeling from Hurricane Sandy.

The holiday parade is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 13, and will run through Beech Street and showcase a number of fire trucks, antique cars and even bicycles all wrapped in holiday lights. The event kicks off at 5:30 p.m.With many Long Beach residents still displaced since Hurricane Sandy, most of them in the West End, organizers Jamie Lynch and Sean Sullivan said that supporting local businesses this winter is critical.

The event is a collaborative effort between the city, the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce and the West End Business Association. 

“Organizers plan to bring a fun and festive night to the West End,” Lynch said. “Following Hurricane Sandy and with so many residents still not home — businesses are struggling to rebuild, not to mention that all of our pole decorations were destroyed.”

Last year, Lynch said that an online fundraiser headed by Project 11561, with the help of the Anicient Order of Hibernians Division 17, the chamber and matching funds by the city enabled the West End Business Association to purchase new holiday lighting and festive pole wraps to create a beautiful streetscape. 

“And, if you are going to have lights you must have a parade,” Lynch said. 

This year’s parade will again feature antique fire trucks, lighted fire trucks from surrounding communities, floats, pipe bands, marchers and more. 

“This is guaranteed to be a festive night for all,” Lynch said. 

Hot chocolate will be served along the parade route, which will also include rides on an antique fire truck and the city’s open trolley.

“With the anticipated crowds, reservations are suggested at your favorite West End restaurant,” Lynch said.

Also look for specials at the new Scout Design Shop, Seaside Celebrations and the Mermaid Art Studio. Additionally, Arts in the Plaza will establish pop-up shops throughout the West End every Saturday starting on Nov. 29 and through December. Visit www.artsintheplaza.com for a complete list of artists and locations.

Page 1 / 2