It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas in Newmarket.
The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is underway and what better way to kick off the season’s festivities than with the Main Street Candlelight Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony tomorrow, Friday, Nov. 16, presented by the Main Street Business Improvement Association.
It’s an annual favourite that draws a big crowd to Newmarket’s downtown and not just because of the free hot chocolate, free candle glow sticks, chocolate countdown calendar to the first 200 children, and live music by the Newmarket Citizens Band and St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Family Choir.
Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen will emcee the event that will find everyone singing along to popular Christmas carols.
"This family traditional event has been growing substantially over the past few years," said BIA chairperson Glenn Wilson. "Last year, we estimated we had about 500 attendees, although some suggest that number might actually be closer to 700."
If you wish to join the candlelight parade, meet at 6:30 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 484 Water St., at the bottom of Main Street. The community Christmas tree will be lit up on the south side of Water Street, between the church and Cachet Restaurant.
The Snow Queen will be there, as in years past, to happily pose for photographs with guests of all ages.
The free hot chocolate coupons for everyone who attends are redeemable at either The Fresh Tea Shop, Cardinal Press or A Hui Hou Coffee House, Wilson added.
Everyone is welcome to attend and bring a non-perishable food or toiletry donation for a chance to win a $150 Main Street merchant voucher. All donations this year will be given to Newmarket's seasonal homeless shelter, Inn from the Cold.
For more information, visit the Main Street Business Improvement Association here.
