“A New Stroll Tradition Shines Bright”

The 25th anniversary of the Victorian Stroll seems a fitting time to create a special tribute to peace and brotherhood in the community and the nation, and so a new feature will be added to the closing ceremony this year.

Troy Mayor Harry Tutunjian and Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce President Linda Hillman will throw the switch on a dazzling new display, “A Celebration of Light,” that will grace Monument Square directly across from City Hall. The lighted display is intended to create a symbol of the holiday spirit shining brightly as it surrounds the Troy Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, which was dedicated in Sept. 1891 and stands 90 feet tall.

At about 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2, more than 2,700 energy-efficient LED bulbs will be turned on, forming a bright white tree shining against one of Troy’s most recognized landmarks and the Victorian architecture of historic downtown.

The tree will display a beautiful white light during the holiday season, but the “green” aspect of the project is equally as impressive. The entire tree was designed to be very energy efficient, drawing less than 300 total watts.  Overlooking the intersection of Broadway, Second Street and River Street, the unique creation was designed and installed by Adirondack Studios of Argyle, N.Y. 

The lights will remain on throughout the holiday season and become part of the annual Troy Victorian Stroll tradition, adding to the many attractions that bring families to downtown Troy to visit the many unique shops, restaurants and businesses. 

“This spectacular display alone will bring visitors to downtown Troy,” said Hillman.  “In combination with the Stroll, it’s bound to be a great attraction.  There is nothing like it in the Northeast. We are grateful to our sponsors for making this new Stroll attraction a reality.” 

The “Tree of Lights” is underwritten by CornerStone Telephone Company, The Franklin Plaza, John Hedley and E. Stewart Jones.