Plenty of holiday events over the weekend and into the coming weeks, including town’s annual Santa Claus parade
Anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit will have plenty of chances in Woodstock over the coming days.
December 1
Those searching for unique gift ideas should check out the Woodstock First Nation Annual Christmas Bazaar on Friday, Dec. 1 and Saturday, Dec. 2, at the WFN Gymnasium at 3 Wulastook Court.
The bazaar will include food, crafts, knitting, wreaths, gifts, art, raffles and door prizes.
December 2
Kick Saturday off with the monthly Northampton Recreation Centre breakfast to fuel the body with the energy needed to enjoy all the day’s activities.
The Northampton Rec Club will serve a full breakfast at its centre at 3791 Route 105 in Northampton from 7 to 10 a.m. The cost is $12 for adults and $7 for children aged six to 12, with children under six eating free.
From 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, the NBCC Woodstock gymnasium will ring with children’s laughter as the college hosts the annual Wake Up Santa event. The entire family can enjoy hot chocolate, crafts and photos with the newly awakened Santa.
Woodstock’s Feeds’ n’ Needs will offer more photo opportunities from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, this time for the family pet. Bring the dog, cat or more exotic pets to the store on Connell Street for Festive Pet Photos taken by Wild One’s Photography, with all funds supporting the Carleton County Animal Shelter.
For the craft-minded, the AYR Motor Centre’s Sam’s Room will offer visitors a chance to make or paint their own clay ornaments.
The fundraiser in support of the community Rose Garden, between 1:30 and 3 p.m., provides the opportunity for people of all ages and skill levels to make their own clay ornament or paint a premade one.
December 3
Sunday offers several family holiday events, including the annual Santa Claus Parade, beginning at 2 p.m. at the AYR Motor Centre.
The parade will travel along Kirkpatrick Street, south on Main Street, to King Street.
The theme for the 2023 parade, sponsored by the Greater Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, is “O Christmas Tree.”
Before heading out to watch the parade, gift shoppers can take advantage of the Holly Jolly Craft Market from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 in Woodstock.
Local vendors will offer distinctive products, while the Legion will sell hot dogs on-site.
On Sunday evening, the Woodstock Baptist Church at 785 Main Street hosts its Journey Through Bethlehem from 6 to 8 p.m. Celebrate the meaning of Christmas with the drive-through living Nativity scene.
December 10
The Woodstock Christmas scene will remain active in the weeks ahead with various entertaining family options.
On Sunday, Dec. 10, six local churches will participate in the “Christmas Open House Tour of Churches of Woodstock.
The self-guided tour from 2 to 5 p.m. will provide a chance to experience the sights and sounds of Christmas at the local churches. The churches involved are Bethel Pentecostal Assembly on St. James Street, St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church on Victoria Street, St. Gertrude’s Catholic Church on St. Gertrudes Street, Saint James United Church on Chapel Street, Woodstock Baptist Church on Main Street and St. Luke’s Anglican Church on Main Street.
Also, on Sunday, Dec. 10, the Woodstock Baptist Church will host the Brand New Hallelujah, a Christmas Worship Experience from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
December 15
Classical music will ring through St. Luke’s Anglican Church on Friday, Dec. 15, beginning at 7 p.m. when the church hosts Candle Classix.
The show, presented by Delacroix Classix, will feature Natalia Delacroix on Viola, soprano Sally Dibblee and guitarist Steven Peacock. The show will also welcome special guests from Sally’s Voice Studio.
Tickets can be purchased in advance for $20 or $25 at the door. Admission is free for students and children.
Ticket information is available online at delacroixclassix.com or by email at delacroixclassix@gmail.com
December 17
Woodstock High School will present its Holiday Concert on Sunday, Dec. 17, at 2 p.m. at the McCain Community Theatre. The concert will offer performances by choir, band, classes and individuals.
The event will include a dessert auction.
December 19
Add a little extra magic to this year’s holiday season at Christmas in the Dooryard, featuring Canadian Champion of Magic Nathaniel Rankin at the McCain Community Theatre.
The show, featuring the international award-winning magician and circus artist, begins at 7 p.m.
Tickets at $10 each are available in advance at Solstice Supply and Design.
Watch River Valley Sun for more news about upcoming Upper St. John River Valley Christmas events.
