Committee approves 'Glow Sobo' winter lights event for tricentennial calendar

The South Road Tricentennial Committee voted unanimously Wednesday to add a winter lights program called "Glow Sobo" to the 300th calendar, approving the concept and preliminary date planning.

Committee members discussed two parts of the plan: decorating the town with an emphasis on winter and light motifs (snowflakes, white lights, wreaths and projections) and staging a single turn-on evening with refreshments and short entertainment. Discussion focused on keeping the decorations broadly winter-themed and inclusive of holiday traditions rather than centering one religion; members suggested incorporating elements to acknowledge multiple holidays while keeping the primary aesthetic winter- and light-focused.

After discussing timing, the committee indicated a preference for a weekend evening in early December so families can attend. A date proposed during the meeting was Friday, Dec. 3, 2026, with an approximate 6–7 p.m. turn-on window; committee members said they would confirm a final date after checking other town events and partner availability. The committee then moved and seconded a motion to incorporate the Glow Sobo program into the 300th schedule; the motion passed 5–0.

The group also discussed logistics including permanent versus temporary decorations, whether to engage the garden club for installations, how DPW and facilities staff would be involved, and whether the committee should budget for projected displays. Committee members directed the working group to develop a detailed budget and event plan for review in the next packet.

Next steps: working group to produce a budget, refine scope and recommend a final date; marketing and banner teams to include the Glow Sobo program in promotional materials.