Festival of Lights Parade on Saturday November 22, 2014 ©Charles Cherney Photography
The days are shorter and the lack of sun can start to create a lack of energy, but Michigan Avenue will brighten your nights when they turn on the holidays.
The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival returns to flip the switch on the over one million lights on the trees on Michigan Ave. from Oak St. to Wacker Dr. The 1.2 million spectators will watch as Mickey and Minnie Mouse light the mile in a parade of helium balloons of some of your favorite characters along with some of your favorite entertainers including Michelle Branch, “American Idol” finalist Lazaro Arbos, Million Dollar Quartet, Charles Perry, The Girl and the Dream Catcher, and more.
However, the parade isn’t the whole festival as earlier in the day you can enjoy special offers from retailers and hotels on the Magnificent Mile. Some offers include a 10 percent savings certificate from Bloomingdale’s when you mention the festival and present an out-of-state identification, $25 off a $100 purchase at Brooks Brothers, a free pound of Gummy Bears when you spend $20 at Candyality, 10 percent off at Timothy O’Toole’s Pub, and much more.
The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is Saturday, Nov. 21 on Michigan Ave. from Oak St. to Wacker Dr. The festival starts at 11:00 a.m. with the BMO Harris Bank Stage and the Lights Festival Lane. The parade kicking off at 5:30 p.m. through 7:00 p.m. and the fireworks show at 6:55 p.m. at North Michigan Ave. and the Chicago River. For more information including a full schedule of events and a festival guide make sure to visit themagnificentmile.com/events/lights-festival.