Horse drawn wagon rides are a highlight of the annual Winter Lights Festival this weekend but unfortunately a deep freeze expected on the weekend might keep the horses at home, says event organizer Cindy Chappell.
The temperatures are predicted to dip to -23C Saturday and possibly even colder.
If that happens, Chappell says Santa won’t be arriving in a horse drawn wagon as usual, but in alternate transportation.
And for the comfort of visitors activities after the parade will all be held at the Limelight Theatre.
Some of the events such as pictures with Santa, live music, face painting and hot chocolate are scheduled to be held in Spirit Square between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Pictures with Santa are scheduled from noon to 2 p.m.
But if the temperature dips to -20C these events will be moved to the Limelight Theatre across the street where activities are schedules to run from noon to 7 p.m. in the evening and include a children’s activity table, live music, as well as spoken word, dance, and theatrical improvisational fun. Food and gift vendors will also be joining the events at the Limelight this year.
Cold or not Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making their way to town in the annual Santa Claus Parade accompanied by various characters and the new Ice Princess float.
The parade musters behind the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex in the parking lot at 11 a.m. and will be merry making down Oliver Street until arriving at Spirit Square at noon for the ceremony to light up the city for the holiday season.
To join the parade or help with the event contact Chappell at beancounterbistro@gmail.com or at 250-398-6061.
Earth Friendly Holiday Event
The 2014 Earth Friendly Holiday Event takes place at the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Centre Friday, Nov. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 29 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Local artists and crafters will be volunteering time and materials for people to make interesting holiday crafts such as bird houses, popcorn garlands, gift cards, wreaths, beaded jewellery, and more using donated recovered and recycled materials.
The event is spearheaded by the Conservation Society and Williams Lake Field Naturalists in partnership with the Community Arts Council of Williams Lake and the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society.
Pet Photos with Santa
The annual Pet Photos with Santa fundraiser to support the local BCSPCA is coming up Saturday, Nov. 29. Photos will be taken between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Williams Lake Veterinary Hospital on Broadway.
Vegetarian supper club
Anticipate the holidays in good health with the Healthy Bite Vegetarian Supper Club potluck plus. Bring a recipe and a dish to share. The supper club meets at 6 p.m. the last Sunday of every month (except December) at 782 Ninth Avenue North. For more information please call 778-412-5279.