Thanksgiving is right around the corner… which means, once again, Monument Circle will be transformed into a shining display of holiday decor with 4,784 festive lights ready for all to enjoy throughout the season.
At Downtown Indy, we know how fun it is to attend Circle of Lights and rave about the colored lights, garland strands and toy soldiers and sailors. But how does this happen and who do we have to thank for making this tradition a reality each year?
For the 53rd year in a row, dedicated union electricians from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local (IBEW) #481 have gathered at the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Monument as volunteers. More than 200 men and women carefully and skillfully install the lights and garland that make the iconic centerpiece for the Circle of Lights. Thanks to Robert Gough from Dodd Technologies, check out this cool video.
Many organizations and individuals have played a part to design, install and implement the Circle of Lights decor and celebration each year since. However, only one organization has taken part each and every year since 1962.
Each year I am amazed and thankful for the IBEW #481 electrical workers and Quality Connection contractors who assist us. They commit their time and talent to transform Downtown Indianapolis into a magical, holiday wonderland. Their dedication to this timeless tradition is truly moving.
We’ve been managing this tradition since 1994 and the goal has always been to establish a holiday symbol of peace, while protecting the mission, structure and integrity of the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Monument.
In 2004, IBEW #481 and its labor-management partnership, The Quality Connection, expanded their role to become the presenting partners of Circle of Lights presented by the Contractors of Quality Connection and Electrical Workers of IBEW #481. Thanks to these partners, the lighting of Monument Circle remains one of Central Indiana’s most beloved sights.
For more information, visit www.qc-indy.com and www.ibew481.org.
