Parade, Olde Fashioned Christmas Bring Out Holiday Spirit

By Kelly Belair, Manotick BIA

The holiday spirit could be felt as our community came together for Christmas in the Village the first weekend in December!

It was amazing – not only to view a record number of parade participants who marched, danced and spread holiday cheer, but also to see so many spectators who put on their parkas, bundled up their little ones and stood in the pouring rain to watch the Kiwanis Club of Manotick Parade of Lights.

Thanks to those businesses who provided hot chocolate to keep everyone warm as they waited in anticipation for the parade to start and to get a glimpse of the big guy in red. 

The dedication to the evening’s events did not stop with the parade; it continued as everyone assembled for the lighting of the community tree in front of Watson’s Mill.   Carolers serenaded the large crowd as Santa lit the tree. It was pure magic!

The merriment continued the next day with village-wide celebrations. Santa and Mrs. Claus wandered the streets and shops, horse-drawn wagons transported patrons and restaurants served festive treats. 

Many cups of cocoa were drunk, Christmas tree ornaments were made, letters to Santa sent and so much more. 

Manotick is truly a small village with a big heart.

With Christmas being the season of giving, supporting the small businesses in our community has such an impact, compared to shopping at the big box stores.

Here is an interesting fact to keep in mind about keeping your loonie local. Did you know that 66 cents for every dollar stays local when you spend at a small business versus only 11 cents when you spend it at a multinational? Yet another reason to support our small business every day. 

Manotick Village & Community Association, in partnership with Manotick Business Improvement Area, are hosting a home and business holiday decorating contest as part of the seasonal festivities in the village. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the decorations. The map of the homes and businesses participating can be found at the following website: https://www.manotickvca.org/holidaydecoratingcontest

You are encouraged to vote in the People’s Choice or Kids’ Choice categories.  Winners will be announced on December 21st.

The decor of the various storefronts and homes throughout the village are worthy of admiration. Whether big or small, there are definitely some beautiful decorations to marvel at.  This is not going to be an easy job for our judges. 

A final Season’s Greetings, one filled with love and warmth from the Manotick BIA. Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday and a happy and prosperous New Year. 

(Greg Newton photos)