If you think the economic news has to make the season gloomy, think again.

The Christmas season is all over it.

The true meaning of Christmas, after all, is the victory of light over dark, of hope over despair. That's what the birth of Christ was all about.

That's one reason we light up houses, trees, businesses and streets this time of year -- to brighten our spirits, and to remember that earthly gloom cannot stand up to a heavenly light.

Christmas lights have helped Americans in modest ways through two world wars, a depression and other tough times, while building a sense of community cohesion in good times and bad. That's certainly true today, and here in Augusta.

Again this year, downtown will be lit up and a community celebration will warm the spirit -- beginning with a lighted boat parade on the great Savannah at 6:30 tonight at the Jessye Norman Amphitheatre (with the 13th and 5th Street bridges also lit up) and ending with the lighting of the Christmas tree, Augusta Common and Broad Street Saturday evening at 6:15.

The Augusta Chronicle Christmas Light-Up Spectacular will actually be a full day of events Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6:30. Look for crafts and foods at a special Holiday Saturday Market from 10 to 2 at 8th and Reynolds; the annual Augusta Christmas Fantasy Parade on Broad Street from 2 to 4 p.m.; and various family activities on the Augusta Common from 3:30 to 6:30. The activities will even include a skating rink and snow blower.

The events are free, and there will be lots for the kids to see and do, free food and hot chocolate and cider.

In keeping with the spirit of the season, you're invited to bring unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots and canned food and coats for the Salvation Army and Golden Harvest Food Bank.

Most importantly, leave your gloom behind.