It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Downtown Lansing, and it will get even more festive Friday night.
The Silver Bells parade kicks off at 6 p.m. with 65 illuminated floats, marching bands, and horse-drawn carriages.
"Leading the way are our grand marshals, the Detroit Lions cheerleaders and mascot Roary, There's also Detroit Tigers mascot Paws. He's a special guest in the parade," said Mindy Biladeau, Executive Director of Downtown Lansing Inc.
Then the state Christmas tree will be lit when Meagan McNeal from NBC's The Voice and saxophonist Phil Denny perform.
"It's a beautiful 62-foot tall spruce from Alpena. Nearly 10,000 lights are on it so it's going to shine bright," said Biladeau.
The tree isn't the only thing that will be green.
The event brings in big bucks for Downtown Lansing.
"Silver Bells is a huge economic boost to the economy. People are traveling not only from the Lansing, but from throughout the state and beyond, and staying the night here, patronizing local businesses," said Biladeau.
Lansing Police are getting ready for the crowd.
Officers couldn't say much about their security plans, but there will be an increased police presence.
"We have a well-crafted operational plan. It's based on best practices and lessons learned from events throughout the nation," said Captain Daryl Green with Lansing Police.
