Utica Christmas tree lighting was brighter than ever

UTICA — Lights were bright and carolers were caroling at the Downtown Utica Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration Dec. 9 at Memorial Park.

At the event, special guest Brian Barczyk, owner of the Reptarium and LegaSea Aquarium, spoke about his plans for the new LegaSea building and his journey since being diagnosed with an inoperable cancer.

The event also had Santa and Mrs. Claus visit and take photos with kids, a fireworks spectacular, a “Stuff an Ambulance” drive to benefit Marine Toys for Tots, and a performance from the Utica High School marching band.

Utica Mayor Gus Calandrino said this year the city was fortunate to have two special guests participating in the celebration: Barczyk and Fox 2 Detroit anchor Roop Raj. Raj served as the master of ceremonies.

At the beginning of March, Barczyk was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and because of his change in health, funding for the Reptarium’s aquarium expansion has been harder to secure. Instead of retreating in defeat, Barczyk reached out to his social media community and raised $227,000 of the $2.5 million needed to complete the build. He continues to work each day, even through his demanding treatment, to ensure that the aquarium opens. Also, Barczyk has decided to name the new facility “LegaSea Aquarium” so that through his legacy, he can continue to inspire a passion for wildlife for generations to come.

Barczyk developed an early fascination with the natural world, especially reptiles. As a child, he would spend hours exploring the nearby woods, searching for snakes and other reptilian creatures. This early passion set the foundation for his future endeavors in reptiles.

After working at a pet store as a teen, Barczyk started a reptile company, BHB Reptiles, in 1989. In 2018, Barczyk realized his lifelong dream when he opened the Reptarium in Utica.

Lori Cooke, the Utica city clerk, said the city’s tree-lighting event was magical.

“Our tree was bigger and better than ever — the (Department of Public Works) outdid themselves this year. The city dedicated the event in memory of the late Cathy McGrail, longtime city clerk. The fireworks were spectacular; Ace Pyro did a fantastic job yet again,” she said.

Cooke said the Utica High School marching band performed Christmas favorites and made a tunnel for Santa and Mrs. Claus to make their way to the stage. The star of “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” Jack Skellington, portrayed by Jack Huffman, posed for pictures. 

“Roop Raj and Brian Barczyk made the night more special by being part of the festivities. Utica Fire did a great job collecting for Toys for Tots,” she said.