Hope you can be downtown Des Moines when they Flip the Switch at Holiday Lights Des Moines on Friday, Nov. 28, 2008, at Brenton Skating Plaza, bringing together the sights and sounds of the season. Admission is FREE!

Holiday Lights Des Moines will feature live performances from musicians and choirs, a horse-drawn carriage, specialty food vendors, face painting, and an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus from 4-7 p.m. on the evening after Thanksgiving! At 6:28 p.m. we will light up the night sky as Des Moines mayor Frank Cownie flips the switch on a beautiful lighted tree!

Brenton Skating Plaza will also be open for public skating from 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Adult admission to skate is $3.00, admission for children 12 and under is $2.00, and skate rental is $2.50.

Following the lighting, join us for another special community event under the stars at Festival of Trees and Lights at the Polk County Convention Complex. Admission to Festival of Trees and Lights is free from 6:30-8 p.m. on Nov. 28, but goodwill donations will be accepted.

Holiday Lights Des Moines is sponsored by MidAmerican Energy, Operation Downtown, City of Des Moines, Brenton Skating Plaza, Lite 104.1, KIOA 93.3, and produced by Downtown Events Group.

Stop by Brenton Skating Plaza to view the lighted tree throughout the winter season, and enjoy the holiday offerings from downtown businesses, restaurants and retailers.

Come stay in the Garden and Galley B&B in Indianola, a short drive from Des Moines, and enjoy the perfect leaf peeping views and holiday decorations of the South River Valley from the inns walls of windows. Visit them online at:  www.gardenandgalley.com