The Shelburne Falls celebration of lights and community is back.

The street festival Moonlight Magic, presented by West County Arts and Culture, will take place Friday, Nov. 24, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. throughout Bridge Street and the surrounding area. This is the celebration’s 38th year. 

“It is a special event. It is a nice departure from what has become of Black Friday. It is all about being out and enjoying community and bumping into your neighbor,” said Michelle Olanyk, Owner of Mo’s Fudge Factor and vice president of West County Arts and Culture.

The street festival includes loads of performances and activities, over 40 vendors selling local crafts and food, and all the shops on the main street opening their doors for one special night. 

The festival will start with a big parade at 5 p.m. Santa will be leading the parade, festively lighting the town with a magic wand as he goes. The parade will also include drummers and stilt walkers.

“There are some surprises in the parade this year,” said Olanyk.

Also special every year at Moonlight Magic is the boat parade. Adventure East invites people to deck out their own boats in lights or borrow one of theirs for free. Starting at 6 p.m., people can paddle through the river as festivities happen on water and land. Registration for renting a boat, free of charge, can be done at bit.ly/3G2LKRz.

Parking for the festival is available at Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School and The Mill in Shelburne Falls. Free shuttles will be running throughout the night. 

“It is an accessible event for everyone and great for families,” Olanyk said. 

Live performances will happen throughout the village. Performances will take place at the Mill, M&T Bank, and Water Street Barn. Performances include an Elvis impersonator, a brass band, fiddlers, carolers and more. 

West County Arts and Culture is a nonprofit that works to bridge the business and arts community of the region. Other events they host include the monthly summer arts walks and Spring in the Falls. 

“This is a really great community festival,” Olanyk said.

Reach Bella Carmela Levavi at 413-930-4579 or blevavi@recorder.com.