Deacon Dave's Announces Opening Date For Christmas Extravaganza

LIVERMORE, CA — Deacon Dave’s Christmas Display, a beloved, area holiday tradition, announced that this year's lights-display extravaganza, now in its 37th year, will kick off Saturday, Nov. 30 with a procession, choirs, salute from the mayor and a "top secret" theme in Livermore.

And for those thinking of "popping the question" — this spot does have a romantic history.

The seasonal launch of the festive spectacular, featuring more than 600,000 lights, will start at 6:30 p.m. with attendees gathering in the closed street near Deacon Dave’s House of the Dove, at 352 Hillcrest Ave., with a greeting from Livermore Mayor John Marchand and a colorful parade that winds from the top of Hillcrest at Fordham Way and proceeds to the house's display, according to organizers.

Flashlights are recommended, and traffic likely will be stopped at Hillcrest until the procession passes by Fordham Way, Santa Clara Way, Pomona Way and Compton Court.

Performing at the event will be the St. Michael Catholic Church's three-choir combination and the Trinity Baptist Choir.

The theme of the 2019 Christmas Display is "top secret" until announced at the opening ceremonies, organizers said.

And for those pondering popping the question — the site's "Proposal Bridge" may be the place.

Over the past 36 years, roughly 71 marriage proposals were made at the location on the famed bridge — a tradition that began years ago when a young man dropped to his knees and shocked his girlfriend by opening a ring box and proposing, organizers said.

"Some years, there were no proposals.Most years, there are one or more," the Casa da Pomba News Bulletin (House of the Dove) said. In"2018, we had four proposals that we know of. Has anyone turned down the proposal? Yes, one, two years ago. With both sides of the families to watch, and with shock as she said 'no'! Hmmm, and after going together for seven years. Well, folks, that ended that relationship. But again, only one 'NO' in so many years? The odds are favorable!"

The daily schedule of the 2019 Deacon Dave's display is not yet published, however, the event typically runs through Jan.1, with the best viewing nights, to avoid long lines, are Monday and Tuesday, according to organizers.

The exhibit is free to the public, with donations accepted to aid the Deacon in his charity ministry.

Read more here on the annual event.

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