It will begin to look a lot like Christmas in St. Marys by the end of this week.
More than 100 colourful festive displays will light up Milt Dunnell Field as of 5 p.m. on Friday. The annual WinterLights display is considered a "must-see festive experience" in the town and can be seen either on foot or by car. It will be illuminated from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily until January 1, 2025. It is free to check out, however, donations are being accepted online at www.townofstmarys.com/winterlights.
Friday also is the day little kids wait all year for - the arrival of Santa Claus in the annual Kinsmen Santa Claus parade. The parade will depart from the Pyramid Recreation Centre at 317 James St. South at 7 p.m. Similar to previous years, the parade will travel up James Street, turn west onto Queens Street and head through the downtown before going south on Water Street where it will end. Crowds of people are expected to line the route with the big man in red on the final float.
People looking to get a jump on their holiday shopping will be able to do so at the St. Marys Craft Show. More than 100 vendors will fill the Pyramid Recreation Centre from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The following weekend downtown merchants will host a two-day open house with promotions and giveaways. The event, November 23 and 24, will feature horse and wagon rides and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
More information about upcoming holiday activities happening in St. Marys can be found at www.discoverstmarys.ca/happyholidays.