Lagniappe | A Little Something Extra for Your Holiday Season

In the heart of Downtown Rochester, a transformative experience awaits as the Lagniappe and the Big Bright Light Show converge to create an unforgettable holiday spectacle. This year, the event takes on an even more significant meaning as Lagniappe celebrates its remarkable 50th anniversary, adding a layer of historical significance to the festivities. The event kicks off with Lagniappe on Monday, November 20, 2023, offering a perfect opportunity for family and friends to come together and immerse themselves in the festive spirit. The streets of Downtown Rochester will be brought to life from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, inviting community members to engage in a celebratory blend of local culture and holiday cheer.

Lagniappe, a term derived from Creole, meaning "a little something extra," perfectly encapsulates the essence of the evening. It is a time when the merchants of downtown Rochester extend their gratitude to their customers' support throughout the year, moving to the street and offering tokens of appreciation and embodying the spirit of community. This is the perfect time to get a jumpstart on holiday shopping in charming Rochester with special deals being offered, while simultaneously helping to support local businesses for the season. The event is characterized by its warm and inviting atmosphere, where the language of gratitude and camaraderie fills the streets, creating an environment that is both welcoming and celebratory.

Lagniappe also marks the beginning of Rochester’s annual Big Bright Light Show, a dazzling spectacle of 15 colors and over 1.5 million points of light, and is a centerpiece of the evening, captivating visitors with its stunning visual display. This light show, now in its 18th year, is more than just an attraction; it has become a cherished tradition, integral to the holiday experience in Rochester. The lights will illuminate the night sky every evening from November 20, 2023, through January 21, 2024, transforming downtown Rochester into a magical winter wonderland.

The schedule of activities for Lagniappe 2023 is carefully curated to ensure a memorable and engaging experience for all attendees. The evening begins at 6:00 PM with performances by The Keynote Sisters and the Meadow Brook Carolers, setting a harmonious and festive tone. The opening ceremonies for The Big Bright Light Show commence at 6:30 PM at the intersection of E. Fourth and Main, leading up to the debut of the 2023 light show at 7:00 PM. Adding to the charm of the evening, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for visits from 7:15 to 9:00 PM, offering a perfect photo opportunity for families and creating lasting memories amidst the radiant backdrop of downtown Rochester.

The Big Bright Light Show truly epitomizes the holiday spirit, and is much more than just a display of lights; it is a celebration of community, tradition, and the joy of the holiday season. Kristi Trevarrow, the Executive Director of the Rochester Downtown Development Authority, captures the essence of the event, stating, "We are in the memory-making business, and I think that the Big Bright Light Show is at the pinnacle of that." said Trevarrow. “The lights are a great excuse to come out with your family, grab a hot cocoa, do a little holiday shopping, and just get your Christmas spirit on.” Her words reflect the deep connection the community has with this event, emphasizing its role in creating holiday traditions and memories that last a lifetime.

The combination of Lagniappe and the Big Bright Light Show in Downtown Rochester offers a unique and enchanting way to kickstart the holiday season. This event, rich in history and community spirit, promises an evening filled with joy, gratitude, and the magic of the holidays. It's an experience that embodies the essence of the season, inviting families and friends to come together and partake in a celebration that is both timeless and heartwarming.