It’s a holly, jolly time in Esquimalt this month with the Esquimalt Parks and Recreation team! From their ninth annual Christmas Tree Village to their Celebration of Lights and parade, it’s safe to say the Esquimalt Recreation team are on Santa’s ‘nice list’ again this year.
“The holidays are about friendship, family and community, which is something we take pretty seriously in Esquimalt,” says Recreation Coordinator Meghan Nicklin. “We have a very full month of celebrations throughout December and we can’t wait to welcome our community members and help spread a little holiday cheer!”
Esquimalt Celebration of Lights and Parade
This FREE community event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with lights, music, food and of course the big guy himself, Santa! The Esquimalt Celebration of Lights takes place Dec. 3 with the parade starting at 5 p.m. – catch it as it runs from Esquimalt Road at Canteen Road, all the way to the McDonald’s entrance. After the parade, there’ll be hotdogs by donation as a fundraiser for The Lions Club, music by Maureen Washington and local schools and even a special guest or two, along with visits with Santa.
“It takes a village to put on an event like this”, Nicklin says, encouraging those who can, to consider helping out on the day of the event. For more information, Celebration of Lights volunteer page.
Christmas Tree Village
The ninth annual Christmas Tree Village opens on Dec. 4 and runs until Jan. 6. Join the Esquimalt Parks and Recreation team as they transform the recreation centre’s atrium and the Archie Browning Sports Centre into magical holiday wonderlands. Enjoy this free community activity filled with twinkling lights and delightful decorations!
More holiday fun at Esquimalt Recreation!
- Lion’s Skate with Santa – Saturday, Dec. 2
- Holiday Celebration Lunch – Dec. 8
- Photos with Santa – Dec. 16
- Jolly Jingle Story Mingle – Dec. 16
Find more information on all the events, farmers markets and seasonal activities happening at Esquimalt Parks and Recreation on their event calendar, available online here. Learn more about Esquimalt Recreation Centre at esquimalt.ca/parks-recreation and follow them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and updates on community events.