Locals and those from afar were among the 850 people who flocked to the region for the annual Vankleek Hill Christmas Home Tour on November 2. Six homes were decorated from top to bottom to start the holiday season as hosts welcomed individuals to peruse their festive adornments.
The first stop for tour participants was held at The Review office on Main Street, where one could find tour information, programs, and a raffle for a chance to win a majestic batik king-size quilt. Proceeds from the raffle go to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada.
Two stunning homes located at 1319 Ridge Road and 127 High Street were decorated by Sue Pitchforth and Decor Therapy Plus. 83 Loch Street was beautifully decorated by Rebecca Bradley, Jade Garden, Pink Bow Tie, and Erin Dawson, while 99 Grout Street was put together by Meredith McAndrew and friends. The century home at 90 Higginson Street was adorned by Ingrid Spindelmann, and lastly, the home of Vankleek Hill Tulip Fields at 199 Main Street was decorated by Grace Clermont.
Multiple vendors were situated around Vankleek Hill, with a few of them being present outside of the houses on the home tour. Numerous crafts, custom-made jewelry, craft holiday merchandise, and edible goods were available for purchase along the tour from local businesses and sole proprietors.
Additionally, other sights to see were also open to the public including the Higginson Tower, the Vankleek Hill Museum, the Arbor Gallery Cultural Centre, Beau’s Tap Room & Shop, and Dunrobin Distilleries. The Vankleek Hill Farmers’ Market was also held, allowing visitors from Ottawa, Montréal, and beyond to take some of the community home with them.
Churches in the community provided lunches and bake sale items.
Louise Sproule organized this year’s event alongside the extended efforts of her volunteer team. Martel & Sons Inc. and the Vankleek Hill Business & Merchant Association sponsored the day’s shuttle trips, which took observers to the various homes in the area.
