Lights On Afterschool celebrations might be a parent open house, a breakfast summit for local leaders, a student performance, a town parade, a candlelight vigil, a community fashion show, a battle of the bands, or as simple as providing information to parents about how they can become advocates... just about anything that works for your community and program. 

1. Performances and demonstrations of afterschool activities, for example yoga, karate, mural painting, literacy games, chess, debate, raps, skits, dance, music and spoken word
2. Decorate light bulb art 
3. Ask attendees to show their support for afterschool by signing the national afterschool petition Invite special guest speakers: parents, local elected officials, the superintendent, youth, mayor, Member of Congress, local celebrities, etc.
4. Students can issue a challenge to the community to provide afterschool for all
5. Parents can speak about their need for safe, stimulating programs for their kids while they work
6. Program staff can describe the positive changes they have witnessed among youth participants
7. Students can give testimonials to the impact afterschool has had on their lives
8. Policy makers and community leaders can talk about the status of afterschool locally
9. Involve community partners to help illustrate how afterschool serves as a focal point in the community
10. Use contests, performances, artwork, essays, and demonstrations to emphasize your message
11. Offer an afterschool program tour for local leaders and media
12. Invite parents and guests to take part in afterschool activities
13. Unveil a proclamation signed by the community, mayor or governor
14. Provide a snack or potluck dinner
15. Create contests and competitions (kids versus adults or kids versus kids)
16. Recruit sponsors or sell items to raise funds for your program (see Lights On Afterschool items available for order)
17. Partner with a local restaurant or business to hold a fundraiser

Case Studies:  Find Tips from Lights On Afterschool event organizers.  Also, summaries of dozens of events held last year, organized by state.

Literacy Activities: Reading is Fundamental, the nation's largest children's literacy organization, has put together a list of fun and engaging literacy activities that can be incorporated into your Lights On Afterschool event.