Many historic buildings along Germantown Avenue in Chestnut Hill will be illuminated by historic photos from the collection of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy. The event will kick off officially on Friday, Oct. 6 with a “flip of the switch” at 6:30 p.m. in front of Phantastic Phinds, 8219 Germantown Ave.

Dubbed “Night of Lights,” the historic photo project is part of ongoing events the conservancy is holding to mark its 50^th anniversary. In addition to the historic photos that will be projected onto large shop windows along the Avenue, other buildings will be lit by theatrical lights of varying colors and patterns.

“The Conservancy’s Archives hold over 21,000 photographs, maps, records and historical documents, said the conservancy’s executive director, Lori Salganicoff. “Night of Lights is an innovative public art project designed to literally illuminate and celebrate the community’s history. In addition to enjoying a stroll through our public exhibit, we hope people will bring flash drives with their own historical images of community and architectural history.”

Avenue businesses have promised to stay open late for those visiting the Avenue in the evening, while the lights promise to provide a truly new experience in Chestnut Hill. Some businesses have even promised to donate proceeds from the evening to the Conservancy’s archive and preservation work.

Salganicoff said assistance in organizing theNight of Lights came from the Chestnut Hill Business District and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA).

Pete Mazzaccaro can be reached at 215-248-8804 or pete@chestnuthilllocal.com