The holiday celebrations are nearly upon us, bringing the return of some cherished family traditions, as we say farewell to others.
The municipality is sad to report that the Festival of Lights will not be returning to Island Park, in Alexandria this year.
The Festival of Lights was founded in 2006, when Ron Aubin, an enterprising community member, drafted the aid of neighbours and friends to assist in the creation of 22 light sculptures. During its inaugural year, the Festival of Lights nearly came to an end, when an ice storm struck the day before the festival’s inauguration. Since that time, the Festival of Lights has continued to thrive and to serve as a shining light for the region. It has brought the community together at Christmas to reflect on the beauty of the lights and the perseverance of the many volunteers who donated their time and dedication. Today, the Township of North Glengarry thank these volunteers for the gift they have given to our community.
This year the festival will not be returning, but the township is happy to report that Christmas in North Glengarry will continue to be a place of festivities and fun. The Christmas season officially begins at 6 p.m., on Saturday, November 17, with a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Gingerbread House Contest at King George Park, in Maxville. The Maxville Santa Claus Parade was held on Sunday, November 18.
On Friday, November 30, there will be a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Mill Square, in Alexandria. This event includes free wagon rides, which leave Chartrand’s Your Independent Grocer at 6:30 pm. It is not necessary to register ahead of time, but visitors are encouraged to show up early. Santa Claus will be the guest of honour at Mill Square, where he will greet the children and talk to them about their Christmas wishes. Return wagon rides will deliver visitors back to Chartrand’s Your Independent Grocer, following the tree lighting ceremony. Please be advised to dress warmly.
New this year, the Township of North Glengarry will be hosting “Fireworks in the Park”. The fireworks show will be held on Sunday, December 2, at approximately 8 pm. This event is being organized directly following the Alexandria Lions Club Lighted Christmas Parade, which will leave the Glengarry Sports Palace at approximately 6 p.m., heading towards Main Street. Santa Claus is expected to make a return appearance for this event, which typically attracts wide crowds of people!
If you’re looking for a hand-crafted and locally sourced gift for Christmas, then don’t forget to visit the Maxville Christmas Market and Craft Show, which will be held on December 15, between 10 a.m .and 4 p.m. at the Maxville and District Sports Complex, located at 25, Fair Street, in Maxville.
Christmas isn’t complete without a visit to Santa’s Village Dalkeith! The Village will be open every weekend between December 1 and Christmas, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During your visit to Santa’s Village Dalkeith, you can pet the deer, goats and ponies in the petting zoo, find the perfect Christmas tree or wander through the forest trails on a walk. There’s something for everyone in the family!
On December 1, visit with Santa at Glengarry Evergreen Farm, in Alexandria. You can book a photo with Santa Claus, while picking out your tree and perusing the hand-crafted decorations.
For a complete list of community events happening in the Township of North Glengarry, visit the online event calendar at www.northglengarry.ca
