Despite drizzly weather, enthusiastic locals gathered in Albee Square on Tuesday night to usher in the holiday season at Downtown Brooklyn Partnership’s (DBP) annual DTBK Gets Lit! Celebration.
The Nov. 25 event featured the traditional Christmas tree lighting, a festive program of performances, and the debut of a new dynamic light installation transforming Downtown Brooklyn into a winter wonderland.
Before the lights came on, spectators watched a lively display of light performers who danced, juggled, rollerskated, and twirled hula hoops, painting the square with bursts of color. DJ Mike Doelo set the stage for carols by Janis Weatherly and members of the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Inspirational Choir.
Regina Myer, president of the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership, addressed the crowd before the countdown.
“I am so excited that everybody is here in the, let’s face it, in the rain, to celebrate the big kick-off of the holiday season right here in Albee Square,” she said. “Downtown Brooklyn Partnership is dedicated to making Downtown Brooklyn a great place, and Albee Square is where it all happens, so big shout out to you all. Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving and have a wonderful holiday season.”
The event marked the unveiling of DBP’s new dynamic light installation, created by Limbic Media and City1, which spans Fulton Mall, Abolitionist Place and Court Street. The programmable network transforms public spaces into “living lightscapes” that pulse, shift hues, and cascade across corridors, providing a visually stunning experience for holiday shoppers and passersby.
Assembly Member Jo Anne Simon thanked locals for braving the weather for the festivities, which signal the start of the holiday season in Downtown Brooklyn.
“Thank you to the public for showing up in the rain and for being here to help us kick off the holiday season,” she said. “I wish everybody a very, very happy holiday season and wonderful Thanksgiving. And don’t forget to shop small on Saturday.”
The event also featured performances by Andrea Flow, Brianna Kalisch, Flow Juggle, and Roller Boogie, as well as an ugly sweater contest. Attendees kept warm with free hot chocolate.
