There is nothing like a parade and a lot of flashing lights to put a smile on the faces of children and adults alike. Add a big red suit and a beard, a couple of elves and a dog pretending to be a reindeer and you are bound to have a winner. There was even an eloquent, hand written letter to Santa that the jolly old elf took particular joy in receiving.

That was the scene in beautiful downtown Shawnigan when the "official" light-up event took place on Sunday, December 4th. Merchants went out of their way to set a scene of fun and fellowship to kick off the Christmas season.

Santa was there of course to add hope, dreams and merriment for the kids. There was face painting for those wanting to be embellished, street hockey in which to participate in case the cold started to overtake the body. For those not into physical sport to warm up the bones merchants provided a fire, hotdogs and hot chocolate as a substitute.

Kids also participated in crafts while their parents participated in "spreading the latest news" while sipping drinks around the fires with their friends and neighbours.

Many attendees did not forget that it was the season for giving and brought many donations to help the local food bank.

The Shawnigan Lake RCMP, all of the great people at the Volunteer Fire Department and the Malahat Lions Club did extra duty, as they do every year, to keep the crowd safe and carefree.

The annual light-up festivity is but one of several events that the Shawnigan Business Association either organizes or sponsors as a thank you to the community for supporting their businesses. Business members contribute to the cost through their membership fees.