UNE Students Illuminate Downtown Biddeford with Holiday Lights

Community Engagement Through Lighting a City

Each year, as the first snow falls over Maine, small towns across the state trade in the glow of streetlamps for a larger, more festive display. In downtown Biddeford, that shift happens every November—thanks largely to the hands of University of New England (UNE) students. The annual light brigade, in partnership with the Heart of Biddeford nonprofit, transforms Main Street into a seasonal showcase that brings residents and visitors together. This tradition began in 2017 and has since become a staple of Biddeford’s holiday season.

What Happens During the Light Brigade Event?

On the day of the event—usually the first weekend of November—roughly 25–30 UNE students gather at the city hall pavilion. They are equipped with ladders, safety harnesses, and a kit of holiday lights that includes string lights, LED orbs, and energy‑saving bulbs. Volunteers then split into teams to climb trees, attach strings to lampposts, and hang decorative globes high above the shops. The coordination comes from the sophomore class leadership, along with the Division of Student Affairs and UNE’s Director of Student Resolution, Tony Montalbano.

Planning and Preparation

• Students sign up through the student affairs portal and receive a brief orientation on safety.
• The Heart of Biddeford staff provides a map of Main Street and the exact locations for each light string.
• Volunteer teams practice climbing techniques to ensure that the process is both efficient and hazard‑free.

On the Ground: Hanging Lights and Building Community

It is a coordinated effort. One team might be busy wrapping a string along a maple tree, while another team installs a bright orange orb around a historic city column. Meanwhile, students take breaks to share warm drinks, listen to local music, and chat about their courses. The resulting display is a tapestry of colors that can be seen from the highway, turning Main Street into a walk‑in holiday gallery. By the time the event concludes, the entire stretch of the street is lit and the community buzzes with excitement.

Why This Practice Matters for Students and the City

For UNE students, the light brigade is more than a chore—it is a chance to apply soft skills learned in the classroom. Project management, teamwork, and community outreach are all part of the experience. Students from diverse majors—social work, medical biology, environmental science—bring unique perspectives that strengthen the execution of the project.

For the residents of Biddeford, the lights provide a visual celebration that unites diverse neighborhoods. The Heart of Biddeford’s mission—“to foster a welcoming, inclusive, and sustainable community”—is exemplified by the collaborative effort. A bright, cheerful downtown invites tourists, helps local businesses thrive, and provides a sense of shared pride.

Volunteer Experiences and Personal Growth

Many students report that the event is a highlight of their semester. Freshman Ethan Case—a medical biology major—shared that volunteering helped him meet classmates from other buildings on campus and made his weekend meaningful. “When I was off‑campus, I didn’t know many people outside of my classes,” he said. “The light brigade gave me a chance to connect with others who care about Biddeford.”

Brook Rainville, the sophomore class president and social work major, reflected on the tradition’s impact on campus culture. “If a student signs up, they show up,” she noted. “It’s about giving back. It’s a living connection to the community.”

Beyond the Lights: Building Lasting Relationships

After hanging the lights, students often walk the street, noting local shops and potential volunteer opportunities. “You may discover a local florist or a bakery you’ve never known existed,” Poupore explained. The light brigade fosters relationships that extend well beyond a single holiday season, encouraging students to become active participants in their city’s future.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you are a student, a resident, or a local business owner, there are ways to support Biddeford’s holiday experience. Below are several practical steps to get involved in the community’s seasonal energy.

Volunteer with the UNE Light Brigade

If you are a student at UNE, sign up for the light brigade through the Student Affairs portal. If you live in Biddeford, you can join the Heart of Biddeford by providing a safe space for volunteers or helping in logistics.

Support Local Businesses During the Holiday Season

Take a stroll down Main Street after the lights go up and seek out local storefronts. Small businesses often rely on foot traffic during holiday visits. A few minutes of exploration and greeting can benefit a shop owner and reinforce the sense of community the lights bring.

Acknowledge and Share the Community Effort

Share images or short videos of downtown Biddeford during the celebration (respecting any privacy considerations) on social media platforms. Tag the city and the Heart of Biddeford to spread awareness of this collaborative tradition.

Future Outlook: Sustaining Holiday Spirit

The holiday light tradition is poised to grow as UNE and the Heart of Biddeford continue to refine their partnership. Potential expansions include incorporating energy‑efficient lighting solutions, expanding the number of lights, and inviting local art students to design custom displays. By doing so, the city can preserve its festive atmosphere while also promoting sustainability.

Measuring Impact

Each year, the consortium gathers feedback from residents, students, and local businesses. This data informs adjustments, such as adding more walkable lighting or improving volunteer safety protocols. The focus remains on creating a safe, welcoming, and visually appealing downtown during the holiday season.

Join the Movement in Biddeford’s Bright Future

The light brigade is an opportunity for UNE students, local volunteers, and citizens alike to share in the joy of a well‑lit downtown. If you want to be part of this tradition, consider volunteering, visiting local businesses, or simply enjoying the lights and spreading the word about this positive community effort.

Need More Insights About Community Service?

Discover how community engagement can enhance academic success and career growth by exploring resources on the UNE Student Life page.

Interested in Volunteering with the Heart of Biddeford?

Check out the charity’s website for upcoming volunteer opportunities and ways to contribute financially.

Stay Informed About Upcoming Holiday Events

Subscribe to the city’s newsletter and the Heart of Biddeford’s updates to receive timely information about future events, including the next holiday light installation.