Video: 2013 Magnificent Mile Lights Festival - Originally aired November 23, 2013
Special Performances included Singer Songwriter Debbie Gibson, Rising Pop Star Megan Nicole Presented By Radio Disney; Disney Channel Stars Debby Ryan and Grace Phipps; Broadway In Chicago's Elf The Musical; And Straight from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Mickey and Minnie Mouse; Along With The Grand Finale, Santa Claus
The magic of the holidays, Chicago style, was captured for viewers around the country when musical performances, beloved Walt Disney World characters, dazzling fireworks and more than a million twinkling Michigan Avenue lights set the stage for the spectacular 2013 Magnificent Mile Lights Festival presented by BMO Harris Bank, Saturday, November 23. Encore broadcasts will air Sunday, December 1 from 1-2 pm; Sunday, December 15 from Noon-1:00 pm on ABC 7 Chicago.
The 2013 Magnificent Mile Lights Festival will be on featured on-demand at abc7chicago.com.
The hour-long special, showcasing the country's largest evening holiday celebration, was co-hosted by ABC 7's Cheryl Burton, Alan Krashesky, Janet Davies and Stacey Baca. This marks the 22nd anniversary of the sparkling Lights Festival and the 7th consecutive year this much anticipated tradition will be broadcast to Chicago audiences on ABC 7, the most watched television station in the city. Throughout the holiday season, the special will also be watched and enjoyed by a national audience, via syndication. Broadcast times are available in local listings.
In the first official parade of the holidays, Grand Marshal Mickey Mouse, escorted by the lovely Minnie, from the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, illuminated over one million lights on 200 trees along "The Magnificent Mile," one of the grandest avenues in the world. (Mickey Mouse has served as the Grand Marshal for the past 21 years; this is the fourth time Minnie Mouse will join him.) Appearing on an awe-inspiring float, the world's most famous couple will lead the way from more than 40 breathtaking floats, helium-filled balloons, classic characters from the Walt Disney World Resort, lively marching bands from across the country and musical performances by top artists.
Viewers will be treated to special performance by singer/songwriter Debbie Gibson who will open the special in spectacular fashion; rising pop star Megan Nicole presented by Radio Disney; Debby Ryan and Grace Phipps from the Disney Channel Original Movie, Teen Beach; Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players and the cast of Broadway In Chicago's Elf the Musical.
Members of the ABC 7 Eyewitness News team--Ron Magers, Kathy Brock, Judy Hsu and Ben Bradley-- spread good cheer as they rode atop ABC 7 Chicago's whimsical float during the parade.
The live broadcast's grand finale lit up the sky (and children's hearts) with a dazzling fireworks display over the Chicago River, just as Santa made his exciting arrival on the scene!
