ROCHESTER (WWJ) -- The holiday season officially begins in downtown Rochester Monday evening.
The city’s annual Lagniappe event will kick off with their Big, Bright Light Show. Rochester DDA Executive Director Kristi Trevarrow said the area will be lit up with 1.5 million lights. Santa and Mrs. Claus will meet with children and families throughout the evening, and stores will be open and inviting shoppers to start their holiday shopping.
“Lagniappe, a Creole word for ‘a little something extra,’ embodies the spirit of giving and appreciation,” the event’s webpage said. “It’s the perfect way for the merchants of Downtown Rochester to express their gratitude to the community for their support throughout the year.”
Performances and speakers will take the stage starting at 6:15 p.m. The Big, Bright Light Show is at 7 p.m. Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be held from 7:05 p.m. until 9 p.m.
E. 4th Street will have food trucks including General Dogs, The Little Donut Factory, The Almond Hut and The Chubby Batch.
Main Street will close between Second Street and University Drive from 5:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Signs will direct traffic around the area.
Attendees should plan to come down early to park. Trevarrow said they expect 40,000 people to attend this year. Due to the size of the expected crowd, organizers are requesting that pets be left at home.