CS Museum, The Bugle to Continue Celebration of Lights Event

CEDAR SPRINGS — A relatively new Cedar Springs tradition will continue this year as the Cedar Springs Historical Museum and the Cedar Springs Bugle step in to host the third annual Celebration of Lights.

The event, originally hosted by the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, honors two “lights” of the community, individuals whose lives and service helped shape and light the way for Cedar Springs.

After the closure of the Chamber of Commerce, community members were left wondering what would happen to the events usually hosted by the organization. Rather than see it fade away, the historical museum and the Bugle committed to keeping the lights lit.

The Celebration of Lights recognizes two citizens of the Cedar Springs area who made a lasting impact during their lifetime. The two individuals honored each year are remembered posthumously for their dedication, leadership, generosity, and commitment to the community.

Originally beginning in 2024, the first honoree was former Cedar Springs Mayor Jerry Hall. Last year’s "Lights" were Niels Andersen and June Mabie, both were remembered for the many ways they invested in and uplifted Cedar Springs.

Sharon Jett, Director of the Cedar Springs Historical Museum, said continuing the event aligns perfectly with the museum’s mission.

“It only made sense for the museum to step in and keep the event going,” Jett said. “We curate so much of the town's history. When we share these stories and recognize the people and contributions, we keep a legacy alive and remind ourselves what community should look like.”

The Celebration of Lights is held in Heritage Park on Main Street across from the Kent Theatre, where the social district is in effect during the event.

Organizers are now accepting nominations for this year’s two honorees. Nominations may be emailed to cedarspringsmuseum@gmail.com. The event is held on the last Saturday before Thanksgiving and more details will be announced in the coming weeks.

Now, the very keepers of Cedar Springs’ history will help ensure its brightest lights are never forgotten at the Third Annual Celebration of Lights.