Take in All That Is Merry and Bright at Owego’s Lights on the River

If you’re looking for something that will help you get into the Christmas spirit, you’ll find it this Friday evening in the quaint and Historic Village of Owego as Lights on the River makes its return.

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Lights on the River is a fun-filled and free event, suitable for all ages. As you stroll the village, popping in and out of shops, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back to a time when life was a bit more simple and small towns invited neighbors from near and far to celebrate the holiday season.

Lights on the River in Owego is scheduled to run from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. this Friday, December 3 and the theme this year is Whoville which means visitors should be on the lookout for characters from the Dr. Seuss favorite including the Grinch. As a matter of fact, the Grinch will be at the Courthouse Square from 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Betty Lou Who and Martha will be hanging around Lake Street and Front Street.

At 6:00 p.m., Village of Owego Mayor Mike Barrata will conduct the lighting of the lights at Courtyard Square. After he flips the switch, Owego Free Academy musicians will perform and then the community and visitors will be invited to participate in a community carol sing-along.

Local shops will be open and ready to help you support local businesses and find the perfect Christmas present for your someone special. There will also be strolling musicians, including a Barbershop Quartet and the local band, Group Therapy. The Starling Harmony Trio will perform at the Visitors Center from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and there will also be strolling magicians, jugglers, and more.

In addition to local restaurants being open and offering specials, street food will be available for purchase and will feature a variety of treats like fried dough, donuts, caramel corn, and more.

Kids will enjoy writing their own letter to Santa at Black Cat Gallery and the Tioga Arts Council will be helping people to make Christmas cards.  And, you’ll want to make sure to grab a hot chocolate and prepare to be delighted by spectacular fireworks over the river which will launch at 8:00 p.m. from Draper Park and will close out another year of Lights on the River.

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, note that from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. this Friday, December 3, Lake Street and Front Street, between Church and Court Streets will be closed. Any vehicle parked on Lake or Front Street will need to be moved no later than 4:00 p.m.

Beginning at 7:30 p.m. and until cleared by officials, the Court Street Bridge, Park Street, and Front Street from Church Street to Academy Street will be closed due to the fireworks at Draper Park.