Thousands Turn Out For Mag Mile Lights Festival

I mentioned earlier on the Disney active involvement in this festivities, the lighting of the Magnificient Mile here in Chicago to signify the start of the holiday (shopping) season. Well, the event took place last night. Even with the cold, slightly wet and windy weather, it looks like they had a huge crowd for the festival (light rain and barely freezing temperatures are NOTHING for people here in Chicago).

Despite the cold, wind, and rain, the North Michigan Avenue parade route was packed. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival began at Oak Street and headed south to the Chicago River.

"I came down to see Corbin blue, Mickey Mouse and Santa Claus," said one spectator.

As always Mickey Mouse led the illumination of one million lights and at the parade's conclusion there was a spectacular fireworks show. But the festivities were more than fun and spectacle. The parade's mission is to promote all the shopping along Michigan Avenue. The stores want to do big business during the holiday season.

This festival and the crowd for this parade seems to be getting bigger and bigger each year, with a continuing Disney involvement. I don't know if Disney does this in other cities. Still, it is interesting to note that Disney chose Chicago to participate in this festivities (and plays a major role in the lighting parade) and also to set up their first ever DVC preview center outside of their theme parks in the Chicago area.

Zz.