If you’ve been along Goldstream Avenue lately, you’ve probably noticed how festive this area is looking. All that hard work is in preparation for the City of Langford’s 10th annual Official Christmas Light Up Celebration, which takes place this Saturday (Dec. 3).
“We are quite proud that it is our 10th anniversary of the Christmas light-up,” said George Henshall, Langford’s deputy director of engineering and public works. “We weren’t sure how many people would attend the event in its inaugural year, but each year it has grown, with more market vendors, bands, choirs, crafts and attendance.”
This year’s event gets underway at 5 p.m. with the Goldstream Farmers Market hosting a special winter market in Veterans Memorial Park. Free hot dogs and hot chocolate (while supplies last) will be served starting at 5:30 p.m. and the big man in the red suit, often accompanied by Mrs. Claus, will be arriving at 6.
At 7 p.m. the switch will be flipped and the city will officially be lit. All the while, community members will be serenaded with holiday tunes. But that’s not the only attraction on the agenda for the evening.
“The event is co-ordinated with the IEOA Christmas light truck parade and Veterans Park is one of the most popular locations to see the parade,” Henshall said. “We encourage everyone to bring a non-perishable donation or cash for the local food bank to the event.”
Trucks are expected to pass by around 8 p.m.
“Come enjoy a free hot dog and hot chocolate, sing some carols and share in the Langford Christmas community spirit,” Henshall added.
katie@goldstreamgazette.com