Unspoken Rules: Circle of Lights

How to find comfort and joy at the November 27 blowout.
  • If you’re going to make a day and night of it, park near your last destination—say, Mass Ave if you’ll head there for dinner. Then walk to Circle of Lights and back.
  • The stage faces south down Meridian Street, which fills up with spectators by 6:30 p.m.
  • Hilbert Circle Theatre serves as the staging area for the performers. Go there for autographs.
  • Schmooze any friends who work on the Circle. They might have access to viewing areas on a balcony or roof—and bathrooms.
  • Radio stations set up booths and give away free stuff. Reindeer antlers!
  • Yes, smarty-pants, everyone knows it’s not a real tree. Play along.
  • It’s not over when the tree comes on. Stay for the fireworks.
  • Give props to the Circle of Lights’ elves: Contractors of Quality Connection and Electrical Workers of IBEW #481.
  • Spend $20 at Circle Centre to park there for about $4.
  • Hold the “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer” requests.