5 reasons to brave the cold for Silver Bells

It's been an undeniably cold week for the area, but before you hibernate in your homes for the weekend, make sure you get out and enjoy one of Lansing's favorite annual events.

Here are five reasons why you shouldn't let the cold keep you from the 30th annual Silver Bells Celebration:

1. Parking is free

Parking is arguably one of the biggest burdens for those traveling downtown. It's even worse when you are battling snow, ice and slush. But, you're in luck.

All city of Lansing-owned parking ramps will be free and open to the public starting at 5 p.m. Friday. Free parking will also be available at the Lansing Community College parking ramp and State of Michigan parking lots.

2. 18th annual electric light parade

This year's parade is bigger and better than before. Seventy entries and 11 marching bands, all of which will be decked out in lights, highlight this year's event. 5,000 lights are required to even enter the parade, but many exceed that number.

3. A surprise visit from a Disney friend

If you've got young kids, this is the perfect opportunity to see a Disney character without forking out a bunch of money at a Disney park.

Officials are keeping their lips sealed on who, but an official Disney character will lead the Electric Light Parade, which begins at 6 p.m.

"Getting a Disney friend outside of a park is a very, very hard thing to do. It has to be a special thing for any character to leave a Disney park," said Mindy Biladeau, Downtown Lansing Inc's executive director. "It's a surprise and no one's going to blow it."

4. Breakfast with Santa

What better way to get in the holiday spirit than a visit from Santa?

Jolly Old Saint Nicholas and his wife Mrs. Claus are stopping by for a pancake breakfast on Saturday and Sunday at Troppo. Tickets and reservations can be purchased at the restaurant and cost $10 per person. Kids under 2 eat free.

5. Fireworks in November

Who doesn't love sparkles in the sky? We know the kids do. Which is why you won't want to miss Friday's magical light show over the Capitol Dome.

The dazzling display will start immediately after the lighting of the official state Christmas tree which has an approximate start time of 7:35 p.m. in front of the State Capitol.

Still not convinced? Click here for an official list of festivities.