The lights will be brighter than ever this year at Light Up Ellijay, set for Friday, November 25, on the square.The annual parade returns – this year with lighted floats – beginning at 6 p.m. The lights of the tree and downtown stores will be synchronized to start the holiday about 6:30. Parade floats and other entries will follow the theme, “Christmas at the Movies.”

But the fun begins even earlier in the day with strolling carolers, children’s activities, store open houses, in-store events, and snack and craft vendors. Some store windows will follow the parade theme and some will show the shopkeeper’s own vision of Christmas.

The annual scavenger hunt will return with shopkeepers using their imaginations to display gifts from “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for wish lists and photos. Everyone is sure to enjoy roasted marshmallows, hot dogs, and fun offerings like cook decorating. Prizes will be awarded in the scavenger hunt and for the best commercial and noncommercial floats.

Better Hometown Ellijay, which organizes the celebration, is looking for sponsors to help brighten up this year’s event. Manager Mona Lowe said, “Our wonderful tree, which was purchased by the former Downtown Ellijay Merchants Association, is showing its age. If we can all work together, we can make it brighter and light up the square as well.” Sponsorship levels are Gold, $500; Silver, $200; and Bronze, $100.

The parade organization is being handled by Kathy Robinson. Anyone who would like to enter a float, musical unit, auto, walking unit, animals, or entertainment group, can call her at 706.635.2782 or go by Cartecay River Trading Company on North Main Street. Anyone who would like to take part in the musical entertainment on the stage, can call Terry Ellis at 706.698.1275. For more information call Mona Lowe at 706.635.4711 ext.5.