Forward, March

Two years ago, the Parade of Lights was mired in Bill O'Reilly-stoked controversy over the question of whether Christian-themed displays would be allowed — but that's ancient history now. "We had a nativity float last year, which looked fantastic," says Sarah McClean, communications manager for the Downtown Denver Partnership. "We...

By Michael Roberts

November 30, 2006

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Two years ago, the Parade of Lights was mired in Bill O'Reilly-stoked controversy over the question of whether Christian-themed displays would be allowed — but that's ancient history now. "We had a nativity float last year, which looked fantastic," says Sarah McClean, communications manager for the Downtown Denver Partnership. "We hope people will come out and see it again."

Of course, there's more in the works for the parade than wise men and hay. Also included are marching bands, a community choir, floats and lots of glowing bulbs. "It's all about illuminating downtown through music and festivities," McClean notes. And if controversy is left out of the mix, amen to that.

The parade steps out at 8 p.m. tonight and 6 p.m. tomorrow at Civic Center Park and the City and County Building, Bannock Street and 14th Avenue. There's no charge for attending or watching the live broadcast on Channel 9. For more information, call 303-534-6161 or visit www.denverparadeoflights.com.
Fri., Dec. 1, 8 p.m.; Sat., Dec. 2, 6 p.m.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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