For many of us, there is more joy in the act of giving a Christmas present than of receiving one. The Wellesley and District Lions Club is offering the chance to both give and receive this festive season at their Christmas Tyme Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony on Dec. 10. Visitors can enjoy Christmas carols and a live nativity as they meander through the village of Wellesley and, for just $5, can purchase a bulb on the Tree of Light, all proceeds going to Meals on Wheels and the Community Action Program for Children.
“It’s a good way to start your Christmas celebrations and donate to the needy at the same time,” said event co-coordinator and Lions Club member Marilyn Bisch. “It gives me a warm feeling inside knowing we are helping people in need- it’s a very rewarding experience.”
This is the 20th year for the annual tradition enjoyed by young and old alike. This year’s event includes story time with Santa for preschoolers, the parade, a live nativity scene and carol singing.
The day’s events kick off with preschool story time with Santa at the Pfeifer Gallery between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. Kids under six will get free treat bags and photos with Santa. Cookies and hot apple cider will be provided during the ceremony courtesy of Wellesley Apple Products and the Lions Club.
A live nativity play, complete with sheep, goats and even a camel, will be presented beside Wellesley pond at 6:30 and again at 7:20 p.m. The parade starts at 6:45, and the lighting of the tree will happen at approximately 7:30 p.m.
This year the honour of flipping the switch that lights the tree goes to Jim Green, a prominent citizen who has contributed to baseball programs in Wellesley and the wider community. Following the switch-flipping will be a round of Christmas carols.
“I think I was asked because last year I retired from my position as chairman of the Don Green Memorial Ball Tournament,” explained Green. “I am very honoured to have been invited to do the tree lighting.”
The tree lighting is a fundraiser for Meals on Wheels and the Community Action Program for Children. Bulbs can be purchased at a dozen businesses in the village, and donations can be made up to Dec. 31. Additionally, along the parade route, non-perishable food donations can be made to the Wilmot Family Resource Centre.
“I’m hoping everyone will find it in their hearts to donate,” said Bisch. “These are two very worthwhile programs which do a lot of good for the families and seniors in our community.”
The Wellesley and District Lions Club meet the first and third Tuesday of each month at the Pondview Retirement Complex. Lions are a group of men and women who identify needs within the community and work together to fulfill those needs. For more information or to get involved with the Wellesley and District Lions Club, contact membership chairman Bruce Shantz at bshantz@golden.net.
