As Barrhead transforms into a wintery wonderland, the time has finally come for the town’s kick off to the holiday season... Christmas Light Up!
The hustle and bustle of shoppers will be quieted at 6 p.m. Nov. 16, when businesses on Main Street close their doors to the public and turn down their lights. Waiting in the darkened town, the community will soon line the sidewalk to wait in eager anticipation for Barrhead’s Santa Claus Parade.
When 7 p.m. rolls around the darkness will be no more, and lights of businesses up and down the street will shine. For the first time in a few years fireworks will signal the start of the floats, and the parade will be underway.
Float after float filled with holiday cheer will come proudly down the street for all to see. Not to mention an appearance by Santa Claus himself.
Children can spend a few quality moments with Santa and get their picture taken with the jolly man in red at Picture This Alberta.
Businesses on Main Street, encouraged to get in the holiday spirit, will be decorated festively as part of a holiday decoration competition. There will also be a gingerbread house decorating contest.
Colouring enthusiasts are welcome to participate in a colouring contest. Completed pictures should be dropped off at the Barrhead Leader office before 2 p.m. on Friday. Little ones are then tasked with the mission of finding their picture in one of Main Street’s shop windows for a goody bag prize.
Folks looking to warm their hands with a tasty treat can stop by at Scotiabank for a free cup of delicious hot chocolate. Carolers will be singing their hearts out as well, a sound that is sure to warm the spirits of all.
Those seeking some slightly chillier entertainment are in luck this year. The committee has confirmed there will be a toboggan hill up and running for the festival, located behind Scotiabank in the Comfort Corner parking lot.
A horse-drawn sleigh will be travelling up and down Main Street, making for a great way to check out what the festival has to offer.
Those ambitious early Christmas shoppers will not be disappointed with the sales and promotions that await them. Not only will shoppers find bargain upon bargain, their purchases will be supporting local businesses. A Christmas market will be popping up at the old Junior Rufus location on Main Street.
“There will be some super sales downtown,” said Amy Newton, member of the Barrhead Chamber of Commerce Light Up committee. “It’s important to support local businesses. It’s your community, it’s your neighbours.”
Volunteers for the festival are still needed. Anyone interested can contact Amy at 674-3823.
