The Chestnut Hill Conservancy launched its seventh annual Night of Lights with an enthusiastic "Flip the Switch" ceremony on Friday night, drawing more than 100 attendees. Among the crowd were notable figures including State Representatives Chris Rabb and Tarik Kahn, and Councilperson Cindy Bass, who provided crucial funding for this year's new digital elements.
Executive Director Lori Salganicoff, Board President Eileen Javers, and First Vice-President Bill Webster expressed their gratitude to the assembled crowd. The event, a highlight of Chestnut Hill's calendar, features vibrant …
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The Chestnut Hill Conservancy launched its seventh annual Night of Lights with an enthusiastic "Flip the Switch" ceremony on Friday night, drawing more than 100 attendees. Among the crowd were notable figures including State Representatives Chris Rabb and Tarik Kahn, and Councilperson Cindy Bass, who provided crucial funding for this year's new digital elements.
Executive Director Lori Salganicoff, Board President Eileen Javers, and First Vice-President Bill Webster expressed their gratitude to the assembled crowd. The event, a highlight of Chestnut Hill's calendar, features vibrant illuminations and themed slideshows displayed in storefront windows along historic Germantown Avenue.
"It was exciting, with great energy and vibe. It's always wonderful to see so many people come together from different walks of life,” said Chrissy Clawson, the Conservancy's Programs and Communications Manager and director of this year's program. “This event brings the community closer while reaching out to a broader base, celebrating all that makes Chestnut Hill so special."
The evening offered a diverse array of entertainment for all ages. Local jazz ensemble Limited Time Only (LTO) and MilkBoy co-founder Tommy Joyner's Pep Rally filled the streets with lively tunes. For those interested in history, an "Ask the Archivists" table provided interactive, family-friendly activities. Adding to the historical ambiance, storytellers stationed at each slideshow location engaged attendees with fascinating tales of Chestnut Hill's rich past.
The exhibition continues nightly through Oct. 9, from 7 to 9 p.m., with projections illuminating seven storefront windows along Germantown Avenue. Each display offers a unique glimpse into a different aspect of local history. The slideshow themes include:
A comprehensive history of the Wissahickon Valley at 8409 Germantown Ave.
Chestnut Hill Architectural Hall of Fame at 10 East Gravers Lane.
Local Visions: Exploring Northwest Philadelphia's Vibrant Arts and Artists at 8333 Germantown Ave.
Public Transportation in Chestnut Hill, Mt. Airy, and Germantown at 8514 Germantown Ave.
The Heart of Germantown: Discovering the Urban Village Historic District at 7 East Gravers Lane.
100 Years of Tradition and Community: Celebrating the Venetian Social Club's Legacy at 8202 Germantown Ave.
"Since opening night, small groups have gathered at the seven slideshow locations every evening, enjoying the colorfully lit architecture and displays," Clawson noted. "It's a reminder of the unique charm surrounding us here. We're grateful to see such a strong turnout for what has become a beloved local streetscape exhibition."
Visitors are encouraged to pick up a Night of Lights "Pastport," available at the seven slideshow locations along Germantown Avenue. By turning in stamped versions, participants can win raffle prizes donated by local businesses.
There will also be a Night of Lights trivia night on October 9 at Chestnut Hill Brewery. featuring questions related to content from the slideshows.
In conjunction with Night of Lights, voting is now open for the Chestnut Hill Architectural Hall of Fame. Residents can cast their votes for their favorite residential, institutional, and commercial nominees until November 15. This year's nominees include the Rex House, John Story Jenks School, and Blum's Antiques, among others. Those interested in participating can find voting details and a complete list of nominees at chconservancy.org/2024-architectural-hall-of-fame.
For more information, go to chconservancy.org
