Preparations for the 38th Annual Main Street Festival of Lights are underway, when Santa and his elves will brighten the byway with holiday cheer.
The Graham Companies’ traditional celebration to kick off the holiday season on Nov. 18 will give families a day and night of fun, all for free.
There will be DJs, choral groups from Miami Lakes schools, photos with Santa and holiday characters and face painting, too.
And the event is an opportunity for kids to be kind by donating an unwrapped toy for a less fortunate child.
Neighbors 4 Neighbors will collect the unopened toys and the Giving Gators charity will distribute them.
Miami-Dade County Animal Services will have pets waiting to find their ‘furever’ homes.
During the day, visitors can also browse the Miami Lakes Farmer’s Market along New Barn Road.
It’s all happening on the Saturday before Thanksgiving.
That’s also the week when Small Business Saturday happens. Shoppers are encouraged to buy from their local merchants during the holiday season and the rest of the year, too.
The Graham Companies sponsor the Festival of Lights, along with Main Street Merchants; Clear Channel Outdoor; HDS Companies; Miami-Dade County; Miami-Dade Animal Services; The Miami
Laker and Neighbors 4 Neighbors.
“Neighbors 4 Neighbors is thrilled to be again part of the 38th Annual Main Street Festival of Lights!,” Katy Meagher, president and chief executive officer of the organization said in a media release.
“For the last two years, we collected toys for our Adopt a Family 4 the Holidays Program, serving needy families in South Florida for the past 30-plus years.
“This year, we aim to collect even more toys and make this season special for children served by Giving Gators!”
Main Street, between Bull Run Road and Northwest 67th Avenue is the destination for fun.
At 6:15 p.m., Santa will flick a giant switch and make downtown glow.
Main Street will be closed to traffic from 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Free parking is available in area lots.