“Just magical” are two of the words most used to describe Ladysmith during the Christmas season.
In an effort to enhance that feeling, and to spread it beyond Ladysmith’s downtown core the local Chamber of Commerce is initiating an event that they believe will get more residents involved and attract locals and visitors alike to tour their community and take in the bright, festive atmosphere.
“We are excited to invite the community to be part of Ladysmith’s Magical Christmas Light Up Tour and Contest," said Roberta Bowman, executive director of the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce. "This new event is intended to be a shining highlight of the Festival of Lights and hopefully can help spread the lights, and feeling, across the entire community. Ladysmith’s Magical Christmas Light Up competition celebrates the most beautifully decorated homes in the community, spreading holiday cheer and bringing everyone together for a fun, spirited contest.”
Bowman also added that some festival folks had approached the Chamber about doing a Christmas decorated house contest.
“It will be an extension of Light Up and has two arms to it," she said. "Firstly it’s about participating by decorating your home and secondly it’s about touring the community to view all the beautiful residences. Everyone is encouraged to do the tour between Nov. 29 and Dec. 18 and then vote online on the Chamber’s website. The winner will be announced on Dec. 20.”
Homeowners wishing to be a part of the decorated house tour are asked to fill out the online application by Nov. 25 so their address can be put on the official Magical Christmas Light Up Tour map which will be accessed via the Chamber’s website. Bowman added that all entries need to be registered before Nov. 29 to be included in the tour.
The important part of the fun event will be taking the tour.
Starting on Friday, Nov. 29 through Dec. 18 the contest will be live. A special link will be available on the Chamber’s website, to take those wishing to do the tour on a self-guided interactive official tour map of all the homes in the contest. The winner of the Magical Christmas Light Up will be decided by those voting for their favourites.
“After touring the homes, we want everyone to cast their vote for their favourite holiday home display. Show your support for the most magical lights in town,” Bowman said.
The event is being sponsored by the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce and Pattison Media. The local Chamber of Commerce website is www.ladysmithcofc.com