Watch Realities for Children Light Up the Night on Dec. 1

2020 has left everyone (probably even the Grinch) in need of a little holiday cheer. Thankfully, Realities for Children is bringing the spirit with the 23rd Annual NightLights Celebration.

Tune in here at 6 p.m. on Dec. 1 to enjoy live local music, a special celebrity guest, guest speakers, the giveaway of a 33-pound chocolate Santa from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory — and, of course, the lighting of the famous Big Blue Tree.

"This year, we're feeling even more so that it's important to our community at large. We need some of these traditions in our life," said Craig Secher, President and Founder of Realities for Children, in our "Tuned In to NoCo" interview. "Even though we can't gather, I think this is something that we can come together around and just brighten all of our lives during this challenging year."

However, the NightsLights Celebration doesn't just bring joy to the general public. The tree shines blue, the international color for child abuse prevention and awareness, to light up the lives of Northern Colorado children who are abused, neglected, or are at-risk.

In 2019, there were almost 7,000 new reports of child abuse in Larimer County alone.

Realities for Children works tirelessly to provide for the needs of these children with emergency funding, critical item distribution, youth programs, and more — something that cannot be done without the help of the public.

Townsquare Media is proud to support Realities for Children through Townsquare Cares: Blue Christmas.

Until December 31, the public is invited to sponsor one of the 30,000 lights on the Big Blue Tree. 100% of your donation, which can be made here, will help provide for children in need in Northern Colorado.

"Child abuse is a very real problem. It is a significant issue, and this year with the pandemic it's become even more challenging," said Secher. "Find a way to get involved. Please help us do that this year. This is a really special way that we can come together as a community and make sure that no child is forgotten."

Along with donations, the celebration will also continue throughout the month. The Big Blue Tree, sponsored by Blue Federal Credit Union, will light every night in December from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., accompanied by a light show every half hour.

To learn more about the NightLights Celebration and how you can shine a light into the darkness of child abuse, listen to the full "Tuned In to NoCo" interview with Craig Secher below.