BORDEN-CARLETON, P.E.I. - Swirling snowflakes added to the Christmas cheer as the Marine Rail Park in Borden-Carleton came alive with the sound of carols and children’s laughter on Sunday evening.
“It’s a great way to meet your neighbours, and the kids love getting outside and being active,” chimed Kristin Hamill, who was holding her son Thomas as they waited patiently in the queue to see the star of the show. “But we’re most excited for Santa,” she added, as Thomas nodded his head with conviction.
The event, now in its third season, had carols, storytelling, a festive video display on the lighthouse, hot apple cider and cookies, complete with Christmas characters, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus who arrived by fire truck and came specially to light up the tree.
Laurel Palmer Thompson had tears in her eyes when she watched the magic come alive as a small child’s face lit up with delight as Santa clamoured down the stairs of the fire truck and made his way towards her, before bending down on one knee to give a warm hug.
“We start meeting in July and go to the woods to cut greenery for the Christmas decorations, and we have volunteers that come in to help put the lights up, we paint festive images, and add a little bit each year,” shared Thompson, one of the three event organizers.
“It’s a kickoff to the Christmas season in our town and we want to create that old fashion feel for the children so they can fondly remember this when they grow up,” she added.
Those traveling across the Confederation Bridge to P.E.I. were in for a welcoming sight as the festive lights and displays around the Park glowed with warmth against the inky-black sky.
'Christmas in the Park’ is an event presented by Destination Borden-Carleton and would not be possible without its sponsors that include the Consolidated Credit Union Place in Summerside, Island Septic, Confederation Bridge, and Palmer’s Quality Renovations.
