Holiday 2009 Event - International Festival of Lights

Looking for something new and exciting in a Holiday Event this year? Whether you are nearby or a day's drive away you would be amiss if you do not attend one or more events of the 2009 International Festival of Lights located in beautiful downtown Battle Creek, Michigan.

Located just off I-94 at exit 98 your winter adventure begins. You would miss a great parade if you are not on the sidewalks for the kick-off parade Saturday, November 21, 2009, beginning at 5:45pm. This parade is sponsored by the Harper Creek Optimist Club with the finale being the flipping of the switch to light the lights.

The International Festival of Lights decorations line the river and downtown providing a breathtaking walk which could last a few hours as you wind your way back and forth across the river. Each year I visit the splendor and am still amazed at the grand display and appriciate the workmanship and hours that organizers must have devoted to the creation.

And I never forget the great meal at Clara's, the local train station converted to restaurant, where you can dine and view the lights both.

No visit would be complete with visiting other attractions in downtown Battle Creek. There is a Warming House which is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6-8pm to help all festival visitors shake off the chill of the cold evening stroll.

Other specific day events include:

• International Children's Day, Saturday, December 12, 2009 from 1 to 4pm at Full Blast Water Park and Mill Race Park

• "COOL" Talent Show - Thursday, December 17, 2009, 7pm at Burnham Brook Community Center

• Ice Sculpting - Saturday, December 19, 2009, Noon - 4pm in Mill Race Park

Battle Creek offers many lodging options both downtown and at the I-94 exchanges. You may just want to make it a weekend visit to partake of all the events and attractions in the area.

Some other great attractions include:

• Binder Park Zoo - A Christmas Tree Extravaganza of its own (December 18-23, 2009, 5pm - 8pm)

• Full Blast Water Park - A Family Water Park with fun for all ages.

• Horrock's Market - A One Stop Shop for all customary and exotic fruit, vegetable, cheese, and floral choices. Also, a complete upper level of books, crafts, and home embellishments and great gifts.

So for the place to be this Holiday Season, visit beautiful downtown Battle Creek and attend the 2009 International Festival of Lights. I guarantee that just as I have enjoyed the festival for many years so will you. Make sure you put it on your calendar. You family will be thanking you and no one has to know you got help with the idea.