Downtown Baton Rouge's tree lighting is getting a much longer lead-in this year. The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge is stretching Festival of Lights into a full day, running from noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5.

The festival keeps its spot on the first Saturday in December. Here's how the day lays out.

Start with a little shopping

The Holiday Shop Hop sends visitors through downtown during the afternoon, with live entertainment and seasonal activities in between. Early risers have an extra reason to come downtown. The Arts Council's Baton Rouge Arts Market sets up at Fifth and Main streets on the first Saturday of every month from 8 a.m. to noon, rain or shine, alongside the Red Stick Farmers Market.

The Reindeer Run is back

For the first time since 2019, the Reindeer Run returns as a fundraiser for the Arts Council. Both races start at the corner of Third Street and North Boulevard. The 1-mile fun run, open to all ages, starts at 5:45 p.m. and costs $25. The 5K run/walk starts at 6:15 p.m. and costs $35, or $40 on race day.

Teams of 10 or more and Arts Council members get 15% off. Online registration closes Dec. 3. Packet pickup will be at the Cary Saurage Community Arts Center, 233 St. Ferdinand St., with the date and time still to be announced.

Parade, tree and fireworks

The Operation Save Santa Parade rolls through downtown as part of the day, and everything builds toward the Lighting of the Tree and a fireworks show to close out the night. Race organizers suggest runners head to one of downtown's restaurants or bars afterward.

Want to work the event instead of just watching it? The Arts Council, which has supported the capital region's creative community since 1973, is recruiting volunteers to help artists, vendors and staff throughout the day. It's an easy way to give back and still catch the fireworks.

Photo courtesy of the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge.