The Night We Light Celebration in Bemidji, Minnesota, marked its 29th year with a focus on community resilience. Held on November 28, 2025, the event brought together residents to witness the festive lighting of the city, despite recent challenges faced by the community.
Bemidji’s Night We Light: A Celebration of Resilience
This year’s celebration was particularly poignant due to the severe storm that impacted Bemidji on June 21, 2025. This storm resulted in the loss of numerous trees, which traditionally adorned the park’s light displays. During the event, Josh Peterson, Executive Director of the First City of Lights Foundation, emphasized the community’s determination to persist.
Light Displays and Community Spirit
- Approximately two dozen trees were lost from the usual displays.
- Metal-framed trees were introduced to enhance the festive atmosphere, sponsored by local businesses.
- Over 500,000 lights illuminated several key locations in the city, including downtown and Paul Bunyan Park.
New attractions this year included a “Cup of Cheer,” a large cocoa mug introduced by Bemidji 7 Brew, alongside signature displays like the “Paul Bunyan Christmas Pixel Tree,” the tallest in the Midwest, and the world’s largest digital walkthrough Pixel gift, “Greatest Gift.”
A Message of Unity from the Mayor
Mayor Jorge Prince addressed attendees, expressing gratitude to the volunteers and local organizations that supported the event and the community during the storm recovery. He highlighted the spirit of cooperation that emerged as neighbors helped each other during the difficult times following the June storm.
- Bemidji Parks and Recreation Department
- First City of Lights Foundation
- Festival sponsors and volunteers
Prince reflected on the importance of community support, stating, “We saw unity in Bemidji with my own eyes.” He encouraged attendees to carry this sense of communal support throughout the holiday season.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Night We Light
Josh Peterson shared aspirations to increase the light display to over one million for the event’s 30th anniversary next year. He emphasized the role of community encouragement in achieving this goal.
During the ceremony, representatives from various local organizations, which acted as joint Grand Marshals, were honored. Their efforts in the recovery process exemplified community strength and collaboration.
Community Involvement and Giving
As part of the festive spirit, attendees were invited to contribute to the annual Holiday Gifts for Kids program. Donations of non-perishable food and toys can be made at the Tourist Information Center. Additionally, Otter Tail Power offered incentives for donations, including LED Christmas lights.
The Night We Light Celebration remains a cherished tradition in Bemidji, symbolizing resilience and community spirit. As the city prepares for the next year’s milestone event, the message of hope and togetherness continues to shine brightly.
