This year the First Light celebration will return to the streets (and the screens) of Brookline. In an effort to be inclusive to all participating businesses and visitors, the Brookline Chamber is hosting a hybrid event that will retain the online aspect of last year’s festival with the traditional outdoor stroll style of First Light. The event takes place Saturday, November 20, from 2-5 pm.
“We have so many different amazing kinds of businesses in Brookline. This is really an opportunity for all those different businesses to come together as a community,” says Klara Kaufman, communications and operations manager at the Brookline Chamber. “The new thing that we’re doing for the first time this year is a tree lighting celebration, and we’re gathering in person but outside at the Florida Ruffin Ridley School.”
The tree lighting celebration will be held on Saturday, November 20, from 4-5 pm. The hour-long celebration will include performances by Voices Boston and the Brookline High School Camerata Choir and an obstacle course provided by Viking Sports, and roaming puppets from Puppet Showplace Theater. Businesses will have tables on-site providing activities. The light display is dimed to turn on at dusk and will continue to shine into the Brookline night throughout December.
After another challenging year of pandemic complications, First Light is also an opportunity for the community to support local businesses heading into the holiday season. In Coolidge Corner, Brookline Booksmith is one of many businesses opening their doors for the event. The shop will host Brookline Music School (BMS) students and faculty who will perform a range of music from jazz and classical to original compositions. Each performer has the opportunity to choose their own repertoire to play the music that brings them joy.
“It is invigorating to be performing in front of a live audience again!” says BMS Executive Director Betsy Frauenthal. A longtime Brookline resident, Frauenthal is excited to be back in the community. “There is something special about the in-person connection between musician and listener. Seeing the expressions on people’s faces – both performers and audience – is uplifting during a live performance.”
Luckily this year, this winter fun won’t stop when First Light is over. In addition to the beloved event, the Chamber is planning a holiday window display contest for December. Locals will be able to peruse elaborate and creative displays and vote for their favorite. Until then, First Light will bring warmth and community to Brookline.
“I hope for the people participating that they feel a sense of connection with others,” says Kaufman. “I think it will be really beautiful and special.”
