The City of Long Beach held a special ceremony last night to debut more a downtown-wide lights system containing more than 20,000 lights, in an effort to create a holiday atmosphere that will attract visitors and business. About half of the lights are brighter, more efficient LEDs. From bright fountains and a giant holiday star on the Performing Arts Center to a neon clock tower and 60-ft. tall Christmas tree, notable structures around Ocean Ave., Shoreline Drive and Pine Avenue will be a little bit brighter this holiday season.
Local arts guru Antonio Ruiz has provided us with this video of last night’s event. Thanks Antonio, and enjoy!
And they’re not done yet. Other lights are still being organized and won’t be operational for a few days, or up to two weeks in some cases. But city officials, as well as the Downtown Long Beach Association and Convention Visitors Bureau – both of whom were involved in the lighting project – are very hopeful that the lights will attract tourism and business dollars.
“It improves our vitality,” said 2nd District Councilmember Suja Lowenthal. “This will make our city a very attractive destination for conferences.”
By Ryan ZumMallen, Managing Editor
The giant switch that controls the City’s new light system.
Councilmember Lowenthal and Mayor Foster mingle before the show.
“As city-makers, we’ve had a good day when we can say we’ve brought people out of their homes to enjoy the public space,” said Councilmember Lowenthal.
Mayor Foster addresses the crowd gathered to see the show.
Mayor Foster prepares to flip the switch.
City Manager Pat West and Mayor Foster wait for the lights to turn on.
The Performing Arts fountain splashes shades from purple to orange to pink, and everything in between.
The fountain and the giant star on the Performing Arts Center.
Pt. II
Living in an Ocean Ave. apartment doesn’t stop these residents from showing their holiday colors.
Carolers rode along atop the Big Red Bus as it drove from one newly-lit location to another.
The dolphin fountain near the Aquarium of the Pacific received the LED treatment, as well.
The Eukanuba National Championship dog show had lights of its own as it prepares to inhabit the Convention Center this weekend.
Holiday lights, snowflakes and a giant Christmas tree at the corner of Shoreline & Pine.
Mayor Foster chats as the newly-blue Convention Center rides past.
Hundreds of lights form to create a giant Christmas tree on Pine Ave.
The clock tower on Pine Ave. shines bright.
Decorative lights and wreathes are strung throughout downtown. Happy holidays!