The ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ festival and holiday parade fell on November 17 this year. Usually referred to as ‘Light Up Night,’ the IAWL festival is a series of holiday activities that took place on the 17 and the 18 of November this year. The festival was held at IRMC park, along with the traditional lighting of the 30-foot christmas tree in the middle of the park. Roads were closed off and the community gathered together to watch them light the tree. Free hot chocolate and marshmallows were provided by volunteers in the area. The Indiana Junior High Spirit Band played in front of the crowd after the tree lighting.
Restaurants and stores all through November 17 had holiday activities and free snacks set out. Some of these included the Indiana Theater, who hosted cookie decorating, face painting, and holiday photos, compliments of the ICTC students from IHS.
The parade took place at 7 p.m., just 30 minutes after the tree lighting. It included many holiday floats and local sports teams.
Many restaurants and stores also had holiday discounts and promotions. Book Nook had 25% off boxed Caspari Christmas cards and Benjamin’s had “A Bailey Family Meal” special four course meal and “Mama and Papa Dollar” seasonal cocktail on kick-off weekend.
People who live in Indiana find comfort in the IAWL festival. Coming together with their family and friends to watch the parade and tree lighting brings Indiana together. Even people who do not live in Indiana can still find comfort in the IAWL festival. Miss Dokos remarks, “I have been to light-up night a bunch of times. I love seeing all the floats, groups, people, and the Christmas tree. I think it’s an important event because it’s a big element of the Indiana community, and it brings everyone together to help kick off the holiday season.”
Not only does the IAWL festival help bring the community together, it helps us remember Jimmy Stewart and everything he’s done. Jimmy Stewart has made a number of movies, but the one Indiana remembers the best is It’s A Wonderful Life.
Jimmy Stewart is a big part of the Indiana community. The Jimmy Stewart Museum, Jimmy Stewart Airport, and of course the IAWL festival, commemorate the amazing things he’s done.
The holiday season is a wonderful time for the community to get together and have fun. Whether it’s about the holiday season, Jimmy Stewart, or just love for free hot chocolate, the IAWL festival and parade at IRMC brings the town together.
Anna is a freshman and first-year reporter for the High Arrow. She enjoys painting, reading and going on long walks. She likes to spend most of her time with her friends and family. She is very excited to start writing and spread news to IHS.
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