The City of Colwood is inviting the community to bundle up warm and come together for a bright and beautiful Christmas at the annual light-up event.
“The light up is one of those special community events that captures the true spirit of the Christmas season and leaves people smiling,” said the city in a new release.
The Colwood Christmas Light Up will be held on Thursday Dec. 5, in the grounds of City Hall from 6 to 8 p.m.
While friends and neighbours reconnect over hot chocolate and treats, children from local schools will spread festive cheer with their musical performances.
This year all five of Colwood’s elementary schools – Wishart, Sangster, Colwood, David Cameron and John Stubbs – will be providing musical entertainment.
And while the city is encouraging people to bring their mittens, they suggest leaving wallets at home, as hot chocolate, hot dogs and treats will all be free, thanks to a number of generous Colwood businesses.
Hot dogs donated by Red Barn Market at Latoria Walk will be grilled to perfection by Colwood councillors, promises the city. And for those with a sweet tooth, Royal Bay Bakery will be offering up their mouthwatering mini apple fritters.
To keep kids entertained, volunteers from West Shore Parks & Recreation, Citizens Environment Network in Colwood and others, will help make nature-inspired Christmas crafts.
The evening would not be the same without a visit from the man himself, Santa Claus, who will be leaving his sleigh and reindeer back at the North Pole, instead arriving onboard a Colwood fire truck.
Cheer on Colwood's sparkly dump truck
Later in the week on Saturday, Dec. 7, residents are invited to gather at Royal Bay Commons for ‘Christmas in Colwood', as the community awaits the arrival of the annual Island Equipment Owners Association Truck Parade.
This year, Colwood’s fully electric dump truck will be taking part in the parade, all brightly lit for the Greater Victoria holiday tradition.
From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., there will be treats, music and family fun. The event will also be collecting food bank donations.
“Join the fun as we wait for the bright lights of the parade to roll through and line the streets along Royal Bay,” said the city in a news release.
“While you’re in the neighbourhood, don’t miss the magical light tunnels on the bridges through Meadow Park.”
