This is my favourite time of year, Christmas on the Peninsula has returned to White Rock this past weekend! This event is very close to my heart, being held since 2009, this event brings people through the community together in volunteering and putting on this festival. The White Rock Community Centre has turned into a winter wonderland of events for all ages.
Some photos from past #christmasonthepeninsula pic.twitter.com/aHK7GsxKH7
— Christmas on the Peninsula (@on_peninsula) November 5, 2019
The Christmas Parade
As one of my personal favourite things about this festival is the Christmas parade! This is arguably the highlight of this entire event. Local businesses, schools and community groups get to build and display their own floats, adding dazzling decor with a holiday theme. These groups consist of local cultural and heritage organizations that showcase their unique traditions as well as Scouts, dance troupes, and sports teams to celebrate the White Rocks community spirit! Marching bands will parade the streets along with these groups, singing festive songs and getting people in the holiday spirit. If this wasn’t enough, Santa and his elves also make an appearance at the parade, tying everything together.
Live Entertainment
If the parade wasn’t enough joy, there are also carolers, choirs and dancers who perform, as people walk through the venue. These people are made up of local artists, giving them a place to be seen and appreciated.
Family Activities
What makes this event so sweet and attractive is the activities they offer to children. I can still remember the impact these events had on me, and to see them continue into the next generation brings me joy.
- Face painting is a classic, that is always offered, through local high school volunteers that love art and hanging out with kids.
- Storytelling is a huge attraction as well that engages kids and fosters happy memories. These sessions are typically held in cozy, festive spaces, such as community halls, libraries, or special storytelling corners set up in the marketplace. These stories include the classics like ‘The Night Before Christmas’ and ‘The Polar Express’. During this time, kids are encouraged to ask questions and interact, acting and making noises along with the story.
- Crafts and cookie decorating are a hit! Kids and their families join at the table with fun Christmas crafts, changing each year on one end. Christmas cookies, with decorating supplies ready on the other end.
Booths
As you travel the halls, you’ll be drawn to an array of tables and booths set up. Here, you’ll find delicious holiday treats. Taste roasted chestnuts, cookies, fudge, and candy cane washed down with steamy hot apple cider, cocoa and coffee to help keep visitors warm.
Looking into items less edible, booths will also be selling handmade items, such as ornaments, jewelry, candles, knitwear, and other unique holiday gifts. Local non-profits also set up tables, selling items with proceeds going to various charities (Peace Arch Hospice Society, Semiahmoo Animal League Inc., Salvation Army, etc.)
Although this magical, community-filled event is over, there is always next year! This event is prepped all year and takes a big team of volunteers and donors to make it happen. If you’re interested in taking part in the event next year, learn more here!