As this year’s Christmas Light Up festivities in Keremeos approached, it appeared as though they would take place under comparatively balmy conditions, given the early winter weather we have been experiencing.
Then the day arrived - and with it, so did the sudden onslaught of winter weather.
The appearance of snow on the ground couldn’t have been more timely for the celebration, although we could have done without the colder weather. That failed to dampen the enthusiasm of hundreds who lined Seventh Avenue at 5:30 to witness a fine parade, in addition to acknowledging the start of the Christmas season in the village with their neighbours.
Volunteers who assembled this year’s event are to be congratulated for facing a number of unusual challenges prior to the parade. The fact that everything turned out so well is a testament to their dedication and perseverance. Declining participation and bureaucracy notwithstanding, these citizens continue to see the value in events like Christmas Light up, and play a big role in helping the village maintain a sense of community.
When the community responds by participating, everybody wins - and we saw a perfect example of that in Keremeos last Friday evening.