Ring in the holiday season at Downtown Greensboro Inc.’s (DGI) traditional Festival of Lights on Friday, Dec. 1. As a part of Downtown in December presented by Allegacy Federal Credit Union, the public can expect an evening overflowing with live performances, delicious food, holiday shopping, a community sing-along and tree lighting, as well as other family-friendly activities to usher in the holiday season.

Festival-goers can start the night in LeBauer Park with Piedmont Winterfest and the Vendor Market at 5:00 p.m. 

At 5:30 p.m., the official Festival of Lights program will begin in Center City Park with a performance by the North Carolina A&T State University Fellowship Gospel Choir. At 6:30 p.m. join in for the community sing-along with Festival newcomer, the Drew Hays Five. 

The community tree will be lit at precisely 6:56 p.m. in Center City Park.

After the tree lighting, make your way down Elm Street for a musical stroll from Friendly Avenue to Lewis Street with performances by:

  • Grimsley Madrigal Singers
  • The Reids
  • GSO Tarheel Chorus
  • Benji Johnson
  • UNCG Chariots
  • GSO Performing Arts
  • High Lonseome Strings
  • Finn Phoenix
  • Sinai Mountain Ramblers
  • Greensboro College Brass

Traditional favorites like Mrs. Claus, Season’s Best Carolers, The Silver Drummer Girl, Superheroes, and Disney Princesses will be strolling throughout the Festival footprint.  

New at this year’s Festival of Lights, visitors can go get tinsel (fairy) hair in Hamburger Square!

Other entertainment includes:

  • Circus Performers
  • Sumo Santas
  • UNC Greensboro’s Student Art Market
  • LED Robot and Mirror Man
  • Live Ice-Sculpting
  • Face Painters
  • Balloon Twisters
  • Giant Lite Brite

The chilly weather is calling for snow in Hamburger Square at Elm and McGee Street. Walk in a winter wonderland, roast marshmallows, and enjoy a special visit and photo with Santa.

Continue the good times on the South End with a laser show, Artistika Latin Dance lessons, and karaoke. Peppermint Alley will debut beside Boxcar Bar and Arcade as the perfect holiday-selfie spot.

Downtown businesses will be open for great shopping and dining options. Other dining options include the following food trucks:

  • Jamaica Coast
  • NutNbutLuv
  • Sweet’s Turkey BBQ
  • Bel le Full Vending
  • Charlie Poppers Kettle Corn
  • Duck Donuts
  • Mahos Bistro
  • Magnificent Concessions
  • Off the Hook/Sweet Cold Treats

MAP