It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas with plans well underway for this year’s Winter Lights event in downtown Williams Lake.
Stefanie Hendrickson told the Tribune that there are are seven groups already confirmed for the yearly parade on Dec. 2, with more on the way. She encourages everyone to sign up and march in this year’s Santa Parade.
She noted that, “of course Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be in the parade as well as the local town crier played by Harry Jennings.”
Hendrickson is the interim executive director for the Downtown Williams Lake Business Improvement Association, the organization planning the event. The parade isn’t the only exciting aspect of the Winter Lights festival however.
In conjunction with January’s Hometown Hockey event, the BIA decided to launch a window decorating contest to bring some art and holiday cheer to the downtown area. Currently, 24 businesses have signed up for the friendly competition in one of two categories: “Paint the Town Red” or “Hockey and Winter Sports Through the Ages.”
Between Nov. 27 and Dec. 1 two volunteer judges will go around to participating businesses and take stock of the displays. They will choose their favourites and announce the winner on Dec. 2, the day of the parade and other fun events.
According to Hendrickson, there was a generous donation of gift cards by Mr. Mike’s that will go to the winners in each category.
However, the BIA wants to know what you think about the window decorations as well so there will be another category of winner, “People’s Choice”. Stop into participating businesses and drop off your vote any time until January 3.
Voting has some other perks as well. With your vote for most beautiful window display, you’ll also be entered into a draw to win one of 10 $20 gift certificates provided by the BIA.
With the town painted red and a joyous parade starting at 11 a.m. the Christmas spirit will certainly be in the air. There will also be caroling and photos with Santa at the Potato House after the parade and selfies with Santa at the Realm of Toys from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. All in all, a day of celebration and holiday fun.