It’s pretty clear that Ladysmith loves the holidays.

Thousands of people flock here each year to see the bright lights and colours of the Festival of Lights, but while the town may be best known for this spectacular display, there is so much more to Christmas in Ladysmith.

Many homeowners work hard every winter to dress up their homes and lawns and make them just as stunning as the buildings downtown. The lights and colours are incredibly beautiful, and it’s heartwarming to see how much effort people put into decorating their homes and their businesses to put a smile on other people’s faces.

There are many, many different events throughout town that celebrate the holidays in big and small ways.

Whether it’s a large party or a Christmas concert at a local school, there’s a common thread of community. Events revolve around gathering and being together, and it’s great to see so many people come together to laugh, sing, dance and share the joy this season can bring.

But, of course, the holidays don’t always fill everyone’s heart with joy. It’s a stressful time, and we spend a lot of time worrying about how to feed everyone and how to afford presents.

There are people in our community who need help this Christmas, and it’s wonderful that groups like the Ladysmith Resources Centre Association are here to lend a hand. The LRCA raises money through its Christmas Cheer Fund to fill hampers for local families, and one way to help fill those hampers is by donating to the Chronicle’s annual Pennies for Presents campaign.

We’re actually about $3,000 down in donations this year, and the hampers are being delivered next Wednesday. We’ve heard that registrations for Christmas hampers are up this year, so if you can spare any change, please do.

— The Chronicle