The lights of the Scottdale Fire Department’s trucks  and the Scottdale Police cars erupt Pittsburgh Street in a beautiful display of red and blue. 

Following closely is the Southmoreland band playing “Joy To The World,” passing by the applauding residents of tight-Scottdale. This parade is what kicks off the traditional Scottdale Light Up Night on the first Saturday of each December.

Light Up Night began as an annual evening of festivities at the Scottdale Gazebo located next to Rite Aide that was meant to display the lighting of the tree at the gazebo. However, as more time has passed, more events began to take place with “Light Up Night” becoming a day long festivity, beginning with Breakfast with Santa at Southmoreland Elementary School.

This event is more than just a breakfast with Santa, it drew in volunteers from the members of the high school’s musical “Seussical” as well volunteers from the Scottdale Library as well as the Southmoreland PTA.

“There’s an opportunity to donate to the food bank at the door,” said a post on the Southmoreland PTA Facebook page.

“We have a wonderful community,” said high school band director Mrs. Jamie Gore.

Later in the day was the Christmas house tour in Scottdale.

“The tour featured four homes and a church in and around Scottdale, The Geyer, and West Overton’s Museums decorated for the holidays,” said Aaron Hollis, the director of the Scottdale Historical Society.

“We discuss the many details of the 1830’s architectural details with decor for the festive season,” said Mr. Hollis.

Following the Christmas house tours was the evening festivities known as the Light Up Night which featured several vendors around the Scottdale Gazebo.

“We had a basket raffle and we sold Christmas cookies for the kids that stopped by,” said Senior Abby Fullem, who helped manage the National Honor Society’s station. 

Much like the Scottie pride window decorating contest back during the Fall Festival, there was a festive window display contest. 

“Every storefront was decorated, and it gave the town such a nice look,” said senior Elle Kenney. 

The Vapor Den won the contest and was presented with a plaque by the Scottdale Lions Club.

Light Up Night continues to be a pillar of the holiday season for the community of Scottdale, bringing everyone together for an evening of yuletide fun.