At its best, Christmas is about children, families and community all coming together in a spirit of celebration.
That traditional approach to the holiday is exactly what Estevan Village merchants Lesley Blackman, Rob Jennings and Marie Elwood embrace as they host a classic neighbourhood carolling event in Estevan Village (the corner of Estevan and Musgrave).
It’s been an annual event in the Village since Blackman got the willing support of her fellow merchants in 2001, and it’s been growing in popularity every year. “It’s something we like to do to support and give back to the community,” said Blackman.
Elwood’s shop, Crumsby’s Cupcakes, serves complimentary hot chocolate and treats and stays open later to make other snacks available after the event. Elwood also hosts a children’s craft corner where the little ones can make their own reindeer antlers.
The St. Philips Christmas Choir will lead the community in song, and will provide hot apple cider to soothe tired voices, grown hoarse from one too many verses of Jingle Bells.
The Oak Bay High band will also be on hand to augment the community’s voices.
As a special treat, Rob Jennings, who has a long-standing and close relationship with Santa, has assured organizers that the great man himself will be making an appearance to greet the kids. Jennings regrets, though, that he may not be around to see Santa in action, as he needs to hold the reindeer while Santa’s busy with his duties.
The festivities kick off at Estevan Village on Saturday, Dec. 8 at 4 p.m.