Downtown Langley is the place to be Saturday evening.
A parade, music, and even your friends from the Langley Advance will be on hand to start the community celebration at The Magic of Christmas event.
Executive director of the Downtown Langley Business Association, Teri James, noted this year features more entertainment than ever before to ensure there is something for everyone. Plus, let’s not forget the annual parade! That too is bigger and better.
“We have more entries than ever [in the parade],” James said. “We have some equestrian riders this year… we’re hoping it’s not too cold.”
The parade starts at 6 p.m. and runs along Fraser Hwy. from 56th Ave. to 207th St. James knows families like to get a good spot to watch the parade from, but the wait can be a little boring. Not this year.
“We have live music along Fraser Highway from 5:30 to 6 [p.m.],” she said.
Entertainers include: Abby and Keith Farebrother, Darcy Mills, Hayley Bouey, and many others.
Before and after the parade, entertainment and activities can be found in McBurney Plaza.
“For the second year, kids crafts and live entertainment from choirs and performers will be in McBurney Plaza from 4 to 6 [p.m.],” said James.
Mike McLeod will provide music until 4:45 p.m. and at 5 p.m., and stunt magician Wes Barker will take the stage with his tricks, stunts, and comedy.
Kids can write their letter to Santa, and it will be delivered to the special Canada Post Santa letters program.
Parents can also give permission to see their kids’ letters published in a special Langley Advance Christmas supplement.
Kids crafts run from 4 to 6 p.m., then pause while the parade is on from 6 p.m. to about 7 p.m., then resume again during the tree lighting and carolling which will run until 8 p.m.
“We’ll be back in the plaza for the tree lighting and more carolling at 7 [p.m],” James said.
Carolling will be by Soundscape A Cappella Chorus.
There will also be free hot chocolate and candy canes.
“This is historically the kick off to Christmas in the City of Langley,” noted James. “This is the 12th annual parade and we keep doing it as volunteers because the people of Langley keep coming and loving it.”
James e advises families to dress appropriately for the weather on Saturday.
It’s a great way to spend time with merchants and members of the community in the start to the Christmas season.
Detour
The Magic of Christmas events will mean big crowds downtown.
Fraser Highway will be closed from 203rd Street to 208th Street between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Dec. 5.