Mayor Sinnott to Help Santa Light Up Perry Square

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December's just beginning, which means it's time to lock in for a month's worth of nonstop Christmas songs, holiday sales, and local business commercials featuring people's kids. If all that isn't enough to get you in the holiday spirit, then you have this Friday to look forward to as Mayor Joe Sinnott will help Santa bring some cheer to downtown Erie.

Friday, Dec. 5 marks the celebration of the Ninth Annual Downtown d'Lights sponsored by the Erie Downtown Partnership. The event is geared towards featuring a variety of attractions offered downtown which range from free horse-drawn carriage rides, to an array of holiday treats from Erie's own Ye Ole Sweet Shoppe. The festivities start at 5 p.m., and Perry Square will come alive at 6:10 p.m. when Santa and Mayor Sinnott "flip the switch" for the square's  spectacular thousand light display. Perry Square won't be the only lit up locale, as the display will be joined by displays from UPMC Health plan that will include the Boston Store along with Erie Insurance, Gannon University, the HANDS building, and more.

"The UPMC Health Plan is pleased to be part of Downtown d'Lights again this year.  This event is a great way to share in the spirit of the holiday season with our downtown neighbors, and we are so proud to work for an organization that values the traditions of our community" said Charles "Boo" Hagerty, Vice President Northern Tier Market at UPMC Health Plan.

The event represents an excellent opportunity for Erieites to come together in the holiday spirit and give their support to downtown businesses. And as if all that wasn't enough, the Erie Art Museum will also open for a Gallery Night that will run from 7 to 10 p.m. which will feature a diverse collection of works from artists throughout our region. So kick off the holiday season right and be sure to make it downtown Friday night to see Erie on display in all its festive splendor.