By Joel Schomberg

Greetings and a Joyous New Year, Tacoma! Have you heard of our newest annual tradition: The Tacoma Light Trail? If not, then I encourage you to put on your coats and stocking caps and join us all in bring in the light to 2024.

Now entering it’s third year, the Light Trail is here to illuminate the prolonged winter nights with a spectacular winter festival. Picture a downtown transformed into a canvas of radiant art installations, beckoning one and all to revel in the triumphant spirits of joy, hope and community.

From December 31st to January 14th, downtown Tacoma will host over 40 dazzling creations by local artists. And each piece will be accompanied by a QR that you can scan with you smart phone and listen to artist statements, poetry or music.

Whether you choose to explore on foot, by car, or on a bicycle, the city will be transformed into a breathtaking canvas of light and creativity. And for those who fancy a two-wheeled adventure, join Downtown on the Go’s group ride on Thursday January 4th to guide you through many of these radiant wonders.

But the brilliance doesn’t stop there! On each weekend of the festival, there will be Lumens Concerts. An enchanting fusion of music, dance and of course, more illuminated art, these events are open to all ages, and best of all, free! So, if you want to extend the holiday cheer over the next fortnight, rally your friends and family and head downtown for a delectable dinner and drinks, then embark on a captivating stroll to witness the radiant artistry that graces our streets. Let your inner light shine and join the celebration of Tacoma.

The grand inauguration of the festival is set for New Year’s Eve in Tollefson Plaza. Immerse yourself in the festivities with music, delectable food, projection art, and a countdown to the new year in harmony with our sister city, Cienfuegos, Cuba. For maximum levels of fun, I recommend arriving by 5:30 to partake in the parade led by the majestic Fire Dragon and the toe-tapping Tacomarama Brass Band.

For more details about the luminous wonders awaiting you, and to see a map of the locations, visit tacomalighttrail.org. Embrace the brilliance Tacoma!