Santa, singers, and millions of lights kick off 29th Rotary Lights display in La Crosse

Hundreds of people, young and old, gathered on La Crosse’s riverfront Friday night to kick off the holiday season as the Rotary Lights were switched on.

Before the lighting ceremony, families gathered downtown to watch the holiday parade, which included representatives from other area celebrations including Oktoberfest, Riverfest, and La Crescent’s Applefest.

The Coulee Chordsmen provided entertainment at the park bandshell, before and after Santa Claus moved the giant switch to start fireworks and light up the park.

Rotary Lights begins every year on the day after Thanksgiving, and continues each night through New Year’s Eve, weather permitting.