Ring In The Season With Fireworks, Tree-Lighting Parade In Poughkeepsie

POUGHKEEPSIE, N. Y. -- The holiday season kicks-off in Poughkeepsie on Friday with the 23rd annual Celebration of Lights parade and fireworks followed by a showing of "It's A Wonderful Life," at The Barvadon 1869 Opera House.

The annual event attracts thousands of people, organizers said, and is regularly voted as "Best Event" of the holiday season by Dutchess County Tourism.

The parade kicks off at 6:30 p.m., Friday, on Main Street to the first tree-lighting event at Barney Building Lot. It continues on Main Street to North Clover Street for a second tree-lighting at Dongal Square Park, which is across from Noah's Ark and Cafe Aurora.

Groups participating in the parade will have a chance to perform at the second tree lighting event, organizers said. At about 7:15 p.m., after the second tree lighting, there will be a fireworks show.

Organizers note that the fireworks may run a bit later depending on the size of the parade and performances. At 8 p.m., The Barvadon 1869 Opera House screens "It's A Wonderful Life," the classic 1946 holiday fantasy tale starring James Stewart.

Tickets to the movie are $6 each, and advanced purchase is encouraged. For more details, visit the Barvadon website.

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