Governor Phil Scott is encouraging families and businesses to help show that “Vermont Lights the Way,” an effort to literally brighten communities and neighborhoods around the state by decorating homes, businesses, trees or other creative ideas to help celebrate the holidays during the pandemic.
“I know how hard this pandemic has been, especially as we make our way through the holidays without the ‘normal’ get-togethers and sense of closeness we all want,” said Governor Scott. “So, in celebration of the coming holiday season, I think it’s time to lift our spirits. Let’s get creative and show the world that Vermonters are here for each other and that even through these dark and difficult times, Vermont Lights the Way.”
Lights, garlands and bows adorn the entrance of a house on Bellevue Ave in Rutland.
In addition to decorating, Vermonters should share pictures of their displays— or favorites from around the community — on social media using the hashtag #VTLightsTheWay. This will allow those who are not able to tour the lights to take part in the holiday celebration.
The Vermont Association of Broadcasters and Vermont businesses and organizations are supporting this effort to help bring cheer to the coming holiday season. Photos posted using the #VTLightsTheWay hashtag could be chosen by a news outlet and shared on their pages to help spread the light.
“I hope this effort will spread joy and hope, especially for our kids,” Scott added. “We can make a holiday season during a once-in-a-century pandemic truly memorable for our kids in a fun and positive way. Together, we can celebrate this season and remind each other that there are brighter days ahead.”
The governor hopes for strong participation in these trying times to prove that once again, Vermont Lights the Way.
A display on Bellevue Ave in Rutland is part of the “Light Up Rutland” group on Facebook, which encourages community members to view all the creative and festive displays around town and vote for their favorite.
I think this is a wonderful idea. My brother and I share a home with our 80+ year old parents. He has decorated our pine tree in our front yard and added a star of blue string lights on our bench swing. We, like everyone else, can’t get together with our extended family this year, but we can brighten our neighborhood and my parents spirit.