Posted on: Saturday, December 1, 2001

Editorial
Our City Lights show simply had to go on

City officials made exactly the right call with their decision to go ahead with the Honolulu City Lights festival despite the events of Sept. 11.

We need a shot of joy and unvarnished community celebration right about now, and that's what the City Lights Festival offers.

It is a remarkably uncommercial, community-oriented event that draws Honolulu together in ways that are rare, if not unique.

Because of Sept. 11, organizers of the show added a patriotic theme to the lighting and displays. That's appropriate.

But the underlying focus should remain as it always has: on the joy, the wonder and the warmth of this holiday season.

The show, including displays on the lawn of City Hall, a tree-decorating contest, a parade of lights and other events, begins today.

Food booths and entertainment begin at 3 p.m., the opening ceremony and tree-lighting is at 6 p.m., and the parade and arrival of Santa will follow.

Come on down. Enjoy.