There’s a reason that the Town of Sidney has been the sight of a bunch of Hallmark Christmas movies.
There’s just something about this beautiful little town that lightens the spirit and brings to mind the way communities are meant to be, at least in a perfect world.
That’s why it’s only right that the Sidney Sparkles Parade drew thousands of people out on Sunday evening to watch the floats, hear the music and make sure the Christmas spirit was fully embedded in their soul.
“We had lots of music, lights and colour, and people just loved it,” said Helen Singleton, the promotions director for the Peninsula Celebrations Society, who organized the event. “It’s really about bringing the community together… bringing family and friends out for an evening of celebration and fun.”
The event has been running for years (no one seems to remember when it started) and has always managed to draw a crowd. This year was no different as the 60 or so parade floats, bands and other entries took to the street along Beacon Avenue, right down to Ocean Avenue. The streets were lined with folks decked out in their Christmas togs, and Santa hats were evident everywhere as parade-watchers oooh’d and ahhh’d at the bright decorations.
And naturally, Santa made an appearance to bring that extra dose of joyful holiday excitement to the event.
But this won’t be the end of Christmas celebrations in Sidney.
On Dec. 14 it’ll be time to get ready for some holiday fun and join Santa in Sidney’s Winter Wonderland, located at Garden Court (2360 Beacon Ave.).
That event will offer free photos with Santa. Pets are welcome, and Santa loves them almost as much as you do so don’t be shy about bringing them along. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the whole family (including your furry friends) to get into the holiday spirit. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the magic.
During the whole month of December, you have a chance to see a Winter Wonderland display of Christmas Lego bricks at the Sidney Museum. Admission to the museum is by donation, making it an affordable and fun outing for the whole family. Click for more information.
On Saturday, Dec. 21, the Reach! Free Community Christmas Carol Sing-Along will happen at the Shoal Centre. It’s a sing-along for all ages and is sure to be more fun than a reindeer party on Christmas day. It kicks off at 2:30 p.m. and is sponsored by Reach! and Beacon Community Services.
