Bright Nights opens gates for Military Night

Date: 12/1/2009

SPRINGFIELD - On Dec. 2, the Spirit of Springfield will present Military Night at Bright Nights at Forest Park. From 5 to 9 p.m., active military and spouses with identification will be welcome to enjoy the nearly three miles of holiday lighting displays free of charge, courtesy of Bay State Gas. With flags lining the entry, they will be greeted by Col. E.J. Gunning and Chief Al Reale from the 104th Fighter Wing at Barnes Air National Guard Base, and members of the Springfield Activities Veterans Committee.

"They give up their holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and every day responsibilities to protect our country's freedoms," Judith Matt of Spirit of Springfield said. "We just want to say thanks to them and their families."

Bright Nights at Forest Park opened for its 15th season on Nov. 25 and will operate Wednesday through Sunday until Dec. 6. Beginning Dec. 9, the lights will be lit nightly through Jan. 3.

For more information about Bright Nights at Forest Park, visit brightnights.org or contact the Spirit of Springfield at 733-3800.