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Annual Yuletide Festival returns for fifth anniversary

The annual Spirit of Sylvan Yuletide Festival and Market is set to return
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Jazz Explosion was one of many musical experiences who graced the grounds of the 2015 Yuletide Festival.

The bright lights of the Santa Claus Parade down Lakeshore Drive, the velvety laughter of children echoing around Breakfast with Santa, music melting around the vendors as the community gathers for the Yuletide Festival - Sylvan Lake in November is truly a special place.

The annual Spirit of Sylvan Yuletide Festival and Market is set to return alongside the Town of Sylvan Lake’s annual Light Up The Lake Christmas Celebrations for the 2016 season on November 25 and 26.

This year the Yuletide Festival is turning five, marking the fifth consecutive year the festival has been raising funds for the Sylvan Lake and Area Urgent Care Fund.

The continued success of the community gathering has seen over $50,000 go towards the Urgent Care Fund. In addition to the substantial support shown in support of Urgent Care, the Sylvan Lake Christmas Bureau and the Sylvan Lake Food Bank will also be benefitting from this year’s event.

Jas Payne, director and spokesman for the Festival Committee stated,“We felt that given the economic climate we are in, we still want to support Urgent Care however, we also want to give where we feel the need is greatest this year, and that is with children and families most affected with the times.”

He went on to state part of the Urgent Care fundraising is already underway with the Trilliant Real Estate/Horizen Travel $2500 Destination Voucher tickets on sale now. Tickets are just $5 and available from members of the Yuletide and Urgent Care Committees respectively, as well as at Trilliant Real Estate in Hewlett Park Landing, the Sylvan Lake Hockey Camp office 5006- 50th St. and at the Sylvan Lake Farmers Market.

The Yuletide Festival traditionally includes a fun filled market full of Christmas treasures, a family friendly Kidzone and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus for the young ones, silent auction, raffle table and entertainment which will include singers, bands, choirs, school choirs and may include dancers and seniors’ presentations.

“Christmas naturally brings people together,” said Payne. “In the interest of creating community spirit in Sylvan, the Yuletide Festival has become an intuitive kick off to the Christmas season.”

The Town of Sylvan Lake is also getting excited for Light Up the Lake, said special events coordinator Michelle Morrison. The annual community Christmas celebration opens on the same day as the Yuletide Festival beginning with the highly anticipated Santa Claus Parade and the always awe inspiring Christmas fireworks.

Sylvan Lake’s Santa Claus parade is unique in the detail shown by those entering floats with many featuring unique lighting displays and decor. The following morning the Town hosts their annual Breakfast with Santa where youngsters are treated to pancakes, crafts bags and live entertainment.

“Seeing the cool Christmas lights in the parade and all the pretty lights along Lakeshore Drive really gets people into the spirit of Christmas and brings the community together,” said Morrison about Light Up the Lake. “A lot of people will come out and go to the Yuletide Festival then head over to watch the parade on Lakeshore Drive and wander over to the fireworks after - it’s a very special night for the community.”

The Town is encouraging as many residents as possible to participate in this year’s Santa Claus Parade to ensure the night is as memorable as possible. Applications are available at www.sylvanlake.ca or at the Town of Sylvan Lake Recreation & Culture Offices.

To get involved with the Yuletide Festival by volunteering or to purchase your $5 Trilliant Real Estate/Horizen Travel $2500 Destination Voucher tickets visit Trilliant Real Estate in Hewlett Park Landing, the Sylvan Lake Hockey Camp office 5006- 50th St. or the Sylvan Lake Farmers Market.

editor@sylvanlakenews.com