by Garrett Fodor
The holiday spirit is shining bright in Kingsville as its annual, multiple week “Fantasy of Lights” festivities officially got underway on Saturday evening, ringing in the holiday season and a chance to be merry and bright.
As hundreds lined Main Street for the annual Santa Claus Parade, and later gathered at Lakeside Park for the opening ceremonies, the Town of Kingsville began to spread holiday cheer as it kicked-off the annual “Festival of Lights” event.
“It’s an exciting time, kicking-off the holiday season with a signature event for our town, the streets were packed and it really goes to show you how much the community appreciates it, the pride and spirit they have for the community,” Kingsville Mayor, Dennis Rogers, said. “The Fantasy of Lights Committee has been at work all year building up to this point and it’s special seeing it all come together and seeing all the smiling faces out enjoying the variety of festivities.”
Looking back, Rogers believes the 2024 edition of the parade may be one of the biggest and most well attended, featuring more than 70 parade floats and hundreds lining the streets.
During the parade, volunteers from the Kingsville Fire Department went through the crowd handing out goodies while also collecting monetary donations and non-perishable food items to be donated to the Kingsville Food Bank.
“It’s great to see the community coming together and helping the community,” Rogers said. “It’s the season of giving and we are grateful for everyone who has given their time from the local businesses who participate and support it, along with the volunteers who lend a hand and the community for their support. I am a parade guy. It’s one of my favourites. And it’s great to see the children so excited and wide-eyed, especially for Mr. And Mrs. Claus.”
As the parade ended, the opening ceremonies kicked-off at Lakeside Park, commencing the lighting of trees and displays.
Rogers thanked the community for their support and was happy to see so many spreading cheer and enjoying themselves in the town and kicking-off the holiday season.
Throughout November and December, the Town of Kingsville has put together a long list of activities to enjoy leading up to New Year’s, including: Kingsville Express Train Rides, Paws and Claus, Breakfast with Santa, an Artisan Market and more.
A full list of festivities can be found online at: www.kingsville.ca/en/explore-and-play/fantasy-of-lights.aspx