November 21, 2019

Do you need a little Christmas, right this very minute? Downtown Springfield is ready to get you in the spirit this weekend!

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker

It starts Friday evening when the Historic Gillioz Theatre hosts Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. The show starts at 7 p.m. The Moscow Ballet puts on a fantastic show. It features:

• World-class artists
• More than 200 dazzling costumes
• Stunning sets
• Towering puppets
• Soaring birds

But don’t take our word for it. The New York Times called it a knockout and said kids were wide-eyed with delight. The Calgary Herald called it resplendently detailed and dazzling.

Want to see it? Tickets are still available, starting at $29. Contact the Gillioz Theatre for more information.

Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festival of Lights Kickoff

The City of Springfield is putting on a show for the whole family Saturday night at Park Central Square. And it’s all free! The annual Festival of Lights kicks off with the Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. The lights turn on at 7:30.

The Square will be overflowing with entertainment for the whole family! Children can write letters to Santa and drop them in a special mailbox. There will be free hot chocolate while supplies last. A.M. Donuts & Coffee will be selling its delicious goods. Free carriage rides, courtesy of the Downtown CID will take place from 6-9 p.m. There will also be performances by:

• Princesses of the 417
• Studio VIE
• Matthew Huchteman
• Emalee Flatness
• Springfield Ballet
• And more

We have it on good word that Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special appearance and sticking around for selfies! And don’t forget to get a photo by the tree. Post it on social media with the hashtag #SGFTreeLighting!

Looking for more fun? Head over to Jordan Valley Ice Park for free ice skating! Bring your own skates, or rent skates for $3! And while you’re downtown, check out the Team A.N.A. 417 Downtown Springfield Holiday Window Challenge. There are 20 businesses with special window displays. See the all, then visit our website and vote for your favorite!

FEZtival Of Trees

The Shrine Mosque is hosting a special event all weekend long. Visit the Abou Ben Adhem Shriners FEZtival of Trees. This fundraiser is Friday from 3-8 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission is $5 for ages 12 and older.

Browse the Christmas shopping area, with vendors and crafters. Take pictures with Santa. Grab a bite to eat at the snack shoppe and enjoy great entertainment.

But the trees are the real stars of the show. They’ve been specially decorated, including presents underneath, and they’ll be raffled off at the end of the FEZtival. Raffle tickets are $1 each.