Josh Peterson brings North Pole spirit to Bemidji through Night We Light calling

Every winter, hundreds of thousands of holiday lights illuminate downtown Bemidji.

Likewise, Josh Peterson radiates with joy.

Peterson, a 2004 Bemidji State University graduate, has a storied history with his hometown’s famed Night We Light celebration. He’s been around since the very first, and that awe-inspired and Christmas-obsessed teenager now leads the charge to light up Bemidji every holiday season.

Now the executive director of the First City of Lights Foundation, Peterson is living a childhood dream. And as someone whose Yuletide enthusiasm could rival Santa Claus himself, he’s the perfect suitor to now create that magic for the next generation.

Watch the video to dive into Peterson’s intricate family ties to the holidays, his passion behind Night We Light and yes, even Captain Christmas – Peterson’s festive alter ego.

To learn more about the First City of Lights Foundation, to make a donation or to get involved, visit www.firstcityoflights.org.