Circle of Lights returns for 50th year

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - With the flip of a switch, downtown Indianapolis turned into a winter wonderland.

The 50th Annual Circle of Lights was held Friday night on Monument Circle.

Some wouldn’t miss the holiday tradition for the world.

"I've been coming since I was five. It's a big tradition. But it’s always a lot of fun. I'm really excited,” said Elizabeth Mannheimer.

Doug and Kathy Simmons are Circle of Lights veterans. This was the 30th year they’ve attended.

"We started coming so we could shop without our little boys with us. Now it's just become our weekend. We come down to spend the whole weekend," said Cathy Simmons.

The event is a spectacle for the senses.

The decorations on the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Monument include 26 larger-than-life toy soldiers and sailors and 26 giant peppermint sticks.

There’s also the eye opening, jaw dropping moment when 52 garland strands with 4,784 colored bulbs light up the circle and colorful bursts of fireworks light up the sky.

It was the perfect combination for the Rice Family.

"I love Xmas stuff and she loves lights so we thought it would be fun," said Janelle Rice.

More than 100,000 spectators were expected for the event. Santa came too.

A look at the crowd and you could tell the weather was bitter. Most came prepared for the cold. Some even welcomed the chill.

"The temperature makes it more festive. Since it’s cold it reminds me of Xmas and its bringing in the Xmas spirit. It adds to the experience," said Mannheimer.

"It's a great evening warm crowd. Lots of nice people. It’s great to be in downtown Indianapolis," said Rick Cavanaugh.

Millions of sightseers will take in the spectacle this holiday season. It’s a sure sign, Christmas is near.