Lloydminster residents will soon be able to enjoy the winter lights at Kiwanis Park in the north end of the city.
The Lloydminster Kiwanis Club is holding the light-up ceremony for their 2nd annual Festival of Lights on November 29. The park is located on 51 Avenue and 56a-56b Street.
Vera Gallant, chairperson for the event, says the park was a perfect opportunity for the club to brighten up the area in the past and now she hopes residents can enjoy the winter display.
“With all the turmoil in the world right now, I really hope that people feel a sense of hope, joy and love. My heart is full whenever I go by and I see what we have accomplished in the park and I trust that people will feel the same.”
Gallant invites residents to walk around the park to see the different displays such as Santa’s Sleigh which she says is a good spot for family pictures. Residents can also enjoy the view from their vehicles as well. She says it took some time to set-up the Festival of Lights over the past month, but the effort will definitely pay off.
“It’s such a sense of pride when you’re done. Of course, the day we called for volunteers it was snowing like crazy, but it was still a really good day. We’re so grateful for the people who came out.”
Last year’s display was recognized by the greater Kiwanis organization and the club was awarded for their efforts. Gallant says the recognition was amazing, but didn’t play a factor in this year’s display.
“I already knew in December that 2020 was going to be bigger and better and it definitely is thanks to a major donor and many businesses that supported us with this event.”
Lloydminster Kiwanis Club also received another award for the largest growth in membership in the past year with six new members joining the club.
“Our main goal is to improve and change the lives of children. We know we’re doing that. I’ve seen it. I’m very passionate about the organization, what we do and hopefully that passion is cast onto other people.”
Speeches are scheduled to start at 4 p.m. with the light up happening around 4:30 p.m. The display will be up until January 2 or 3.