To go along with all of that snow, it will feel as though Christmas has come to the County of Haliburton this weekend with a plethora of favourite seasonal events.
Haliburton tree lighting, Santa Claus parade
It all kicks off Friday, Nov. 22 in Haliburton with the annual tree lighting followed by the Santa Claus parade.
The Highland Street event has flourished for decades, managed by the Downtown Haliburton Business Improvement Area with the help of the Haliburton & District Lions Club, Dysart et al, the Ontario Provincial Police and volunteers.
Spectators now enjoy about 40 parade entries each year including floats, bands and marching and dancing groups, said Jim Frost in a recent interview with The Highlander. Frost is the parade coordinator and chair of the Lions’ parade committee.
This year’s theme is “Peace on Earth.” Events begin at 6 p.m. with the tree lighting and carol singing, followed by the parade at 6:30 p.m.
Holiday market at the Pinestone
People can check out the second annual holiday market from 4 to 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. There will be more than 30 vendors, a fashion show at 1 p.m., Christmas mini photo shoots ($40) and new this year, they’ve partnered with Minden Food Bank and will be taking donations as well as having a raffle table with all proceeds going to the Minden Food Bank.
Minden Santa Claus parade
On Saturday, Nov. 23, Santa makes his way to Minden for that village’s 20th annual Santa Claus Parade.
The fun-filled event is perfect for the whole family to kick off the Christmas season.
Floats start at 11:30 a.m. at the curling club parking lot, travel along Parkside Street to Bobcaygeon Road, then through the town, ending at the township office parking lot on Milne Street.
The public is asked not to park on main street leading up to the parade. Santa will then make his way to the Cultural Centre at 1 p.m.
Festival of Trees
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Festival of Trees.
The raffle event is an opportunity for the public to win an assortment of beautifully-decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, gift baskets, gift certificates and more.
It runs Nov. 22 and 23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Nov. 24 from noon to 3 p.m.
Admission is $5 for 18-plus. Raffle tickets are $5 for a book of six.
“Our heritage village will offer a candy shop and gift store at the Sterling Bank, hot chocolate and cider at the Bowron Loghouse, Christmas craft-making at the schoolhouse, and traditional Christmas music at the Bethel Church,” organizers said.
Christmas Shindig
The action shifts back to Haliburton Nov. 23 for the sixth annual The Highlands Christmas Shindig at the Northern Lights Performing Arts Pavilion. It runs from 7:30-10:30 p.m.
Dubbed by some “the funniest” fundraiser of the year, there will be eight great acts plus Dame Beatrice, Sir Cedric and Penelope. The event raises money for Fuel for Warmth, to help those in need of heat during our severe winters.
Christmas Artisan Market
On Sunday, Nov. 24, Minden will be hosting its annual Christmas artisan market from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Minden Community Centre.
There will be handcrafted items made by local artisans. Admission is free to the public.
- For other events happening this week, check out our what’s on section.
