Norwich — Many local cities and towns hold festive events to turn on holiday lights in late November or early December.

But the Norwich Historical Society might be alone in finding a local theme to turn off the lights — Benedict Arnold’s birthday.

Arnold was born Jan. 14, 1741, in Norwich. His name is synonymous with the word traitor. Despite Arnold’s defection to the British during the American Revolutionary War, he was a fierce patriot for the Continental Army prior to his defection.

The Norwich Historical Society will acknowledge Arnold's birthday by turning off the City Hall Christmas lights during an event Friday at 5 p.m. in City Hall Plaza, 100 Broadway. The event is free and open to the public. Participants are asked to keep social distancing during the event.

After the event, attendees are encouraged to patronize one of the many downtown Norwich restaurants and businesses.