By Kate Bartlett
The 3rd annual “Light Up the Point” celebration will illuminate Bemus Point on Saturday, November 30th, in conjunction with Small Business Saturday. Everyone is invited to come celebrate the spirit of the holiday season in this festive, memorable day full of family-friendly events.
Three years ago, community members and collaborated with the Bemus Point Business Association to create a festive holiday celebration for the community. “The event is designed to foster holiday spirit and support Bemus Point’s local businesses, while bringing the community together,” says Kelley Marker, Executive Director of the Bemus Point Business Association.
The event kicks off at noon, with a Holiday Market and family-friendly activities will take place throughout the day. Visitors can stroll a variety of local vendors at the Holiday Market, including Brigiotta’s, It’s Your Day, Kettle Corn, and more, located in the EBC/Skillmans parking lot until around 7pm. All are invited to make ornaments from 12-4 at Lakeside Arts & Furniture, decorate cookies at Lake Life Café, and participate in children’s crafts from 12-3pm at the Bemus Point Library. There will also be pony rides at Rock Marine and story time with Mrs. Claus at the Bemus Point Library at 3pm.
Throughout the day, local businesses will be hosting special activities and adorning their storefronts with lights and decorations. “Our community really shines bright during the holidays,” says Kelley. “We invite everyone to come out and support our many wonderful small businesses, while enjoying the beautiful holiday spirit.”
New this year, the community is encouraging Maple Grove school groups to decorate trees that will be featured during the event. “We’re so grateful that Amy Martis of Lake Life Café spearheaded this wonderful idea,” says Kelley. “It’s a great opportunity to recognize groups within our school while giving them the opportunity to celebrate our community.”
This year, Light Up the Point falls on Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to celebrating and supporting small, local businesses. Visitors can enjoy seasonal shopping while supporting local shops with special offers and unique gifts throughout the village. Several shops will be running holiday sales, including The Ugly Peacock, Petals & Twigs Gifts and Children’s Shoppe, Skillmans, Lakeside Arts & Furniture, Bemus Point Pottery, Treasures on Main, and more.
Looking for more fun activities? Alpacaville will be open for visitors to meet certified therapy alpacas and browse their alpaca-themed gifts and accessories. The Happy Cow (located next to Splash) will have a “Spin to Win” with holiday prizes and a holiday photo op area. The Bemus Point Historical Society’s Museum will be open from 11-3pm, and The Lawson Center will be open from 3-5pm before the parade, offering visitors the unique opportunity to explore their diverse collection of boating history. The Bemus Point Golf Club & Tap House will also be hosting an after parade party with a DJ and holiday music! Followed by their annual One-Stop Christmas Shoppe on Sunday.
Local restaurants will be kicking off the holiday season by introducing seasonal specials. Bemus Point Inn Restaurant, Guppy’s Restaurant and Tavern, Lake Life Café, Bemus Point Golf Club & Tap House, Coppola’s Pizza, 14 Main, and The Green Door Tavern will all be open during the event. See-Zurh House will be hosting a parade viewing party with hot dogs and hamburgers.
The event will conclude with the much-anticipated parade down Main Street at 5pm, with all visitors invited to participate. “We highly encourage everyone to participate in our parade,” says Kelley. “Decorate your car, golf cart, or yourselves and join us to drive or walk the parade. It’s a wonderful tradition and we love to see everyone sparkle!”
The parade ends at the intersection of Lakeside Drive and Main Street, where the crowd will gather with Santa Claus for caroling and the lighting of the Village Tree. Santa will also be available for photos following the event.
The Bemus Point Business Association and Village of Bemus Point invites everyone out to Light Up the Point on November 30th. “It’s a cozy community event, and a great way to kick off the holiday season. It’s a great opportunity to support our local businesses and celebrate together. We’re so grateful the community has embraced this event, and we hope to keep the momentum going for years to come.”
Special thanks to our sponsors: Splash, The Happy Cow, Bentley Home Services, and The Landing at BPT.
For more information, head to www.visitbemuspoint.com and follow @visitbemuspoint on Facebook for updates. Anyone interested in volunteering for or sponsoring the event can contact Kelley directly at visitbemuspoint@gmail.com.