Exciting New Holiday Tradition Ignites Downtown Birmingham!
Hey there, Birmingham! It’s that time of year again when our city sparkles with the magic of the holiday season. The annual lighting of the Regions Bank building has been a beloved tradition here since the 1970s, and this year, it’s getting a festive twist! 🌟
Mark Your Calendars for the Big Event!
This Friday, get ready to join in on the excitement! The special lighting ceremony kicks off at 4:30 p.m. at the Regions Center Plaza, located at the northwest corner of 5th Avenue North and 20th Street North. When the clock strikes 5:15 p.m., prepare for the building to illuminate in a breathtaking display of holiday cheer.
Hosting the inaugural lighting ceremony is none other than Deno Posey, an executive vice president for Regions Bank and a talented local performer who is sure to bring some fun to the festivities!
Food Trucks and Festivities Await!
If the thought of twinkling lights wasn’t exciting enough, there’ll be food trucks galore! Grab a bite to eat while you soak in the joyful atmosphere and the community spirit. It’s the perfect opportunity to get into the holiday spirit and create lasting memories with family and friends.
A Long-standing Tradition
Did you know that the holiday lights we cherish today date back nearly 40 years? The Regions Bank building, a majestic 30-story architectural gem, was completed in 1971 and initially shared by the First National Bank of Birmingham and Southern Natural Gas. One keen Sonat executive spotted a festive lighting display on a Houston building, and just like that, our city’s holiday lights were born! With custom curtains of light illuminating the building, it quickly became a hallmark of Birmingham’s holiday season.
How Do They Do It?
As Thanksgiving approaches each year, a dedicated team gears up to bring this enchanting display to life. Crews begin installing gel sleeves over the light tubes in all the windows involved in the display, carefully following design grids to arrange the various colors precisely. These dazzling lights then come together to form beautiful Christmas shapes, including two Christmas trees, a wreath, and a stocking. Talk about a labor of love!
What You May Have Seen Before
If you caught a glimpse of the building’s holiday lights illuminating earlier this season, you might have been wondering what was going on! Regions Bank announced those lights were merely a test run to identify any bulbs that might need a replacement ahead of the big show. Safety first, right?
Join Us in Celebrating!
As the holiday lights brighten up our downtown, let’s join together as a community to celebrate the season of joy, love, and togetherness. Whether you’re a new face in Birmingham or a long-time resident, this event is the perfect way to embrace the festive spirit.
See You There!
So, don’t forget to head on over to Regions Center Plaza this Friday! Bring your friends, family, and most importantly, your holiday cheer. With tasty treats, lively music, and a stunning display of lights ushering in the holiday season, it’s bound to be an unforgettable time for all, regardless of age!
Let’s light up Birmingham together, starting this Friday at 4:30 p.m.! 🎉
