The Aldershot BIA held a very successful tree lighting at Downsview Plaza on the chilly afternoon of Nov 20th. The yearly tradition has become a favourite among the local community and its business members.
Starting at 3pm, the ever-growing crowd was treated to music, food and fun while waiting for the tree lighting. Santa entertained the kiddies as Burlington’s own Emma Whale treated the crowd to Christmas songs; singing and playing guitar. Other music was provided by the Hand Bell Choir of St. Matthews Church and Enchorus Children’s Choir.
To warm their bellies, the crowd was treated to free samples of tasty potato or mulligatawny soup, generously offered by District Kitchen and Bar. Scrumptious!
Little people lined up to receive a twisted balloon candy cane or balloon animal. Officer Bochsler of the Halton Police proudly represented the Cram-a-cruiser program; accepting food donations for Halton’s Compassion Society.
The Holiday Vendor Market was a hit once again as numerous local vendors such as Crattoria Creations, Art by Cori and Basketful Boutique, made their products available to the delight of the Christmas shoppers.
West Plains United sold honey produced from the six bee colonies living behind the church, that collect nectar from flowers in Hendrie Park and other nearby gardens. Horse-drawn Carriage rides were back this year but had to be pre-booked.
A little after 6pm, spirits soared when the multicoloured lights popped on, illuminating the gigantic tree at Plains and Downsview that has brought Christmas joy to so many over the years.
The BIA would like to thank everyone who came out and a special thank you to the title sponsors Councillor Kelvin Galbraith and Leslie Bullock of Team Bullock Real Estate.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Article by Jason Stacey
