A Moment with the Mayor: It's a Christmas time of year

The Christmas season brings happiness and laughter, gatherings of family and friends, food and typically presents. The weather is usually a lot colder and much more winter-like, but this year is a rare gem. Winter this year has been a whole lot easier to take unless you are a skier, ice fishing enthusiast or snowmobile owner.

The events in and around Lloydminster that mark preparing for Christmas and the early winter have started with much success. The Christmas Craft Fair at the Lloydminster Exhibition was attended by exhibitors from far and near, and those shopping were treated to many unusual gift ideas and opportunities to browse and enjoy.

The community was treated to a beautiful day on December 2 as we celebrated the 16th Annual Here Comes Santa Clause Day. The streets of our community are filled with children and families enjoying all the free activities around the city. A huge thank you to the organizers, donors and sponsors who make this day such a gift to our city. Fireworks ended the day with a bang and left smiles on faces everywhere.

Another ongoing event through the Christmas season in our community is the Lights and Sounds of Christmas house located at 5704 30 Street every night from 5-10 p.m. until January 6. There are lights and displays in the backyard as well. This is free to the public, with the proceeds of this year’s donations going to the Salvation Army Food Bank, Big Brothers, Big Sisters Lloydminster and the Gift of Christmas. Check out this house with music you tune into on your car radio to enjoy lights synchronized to the music. 

Make sure that you mark your calendar for December 21 for the Lloydminster Parade of Lights. This is an excellent opportunity to bundle everyone up and enjoy this great event downtown. The parade starts at the Lloyd Ex Grounds at 7 p.m. and makes its way south on 50 Avenue and turns at 46 Street before heading north on 49 Avenue. Remember to pack your hot chocolate and a blanket and wrap up your family to enjoy.

As always, our city residents and businesses are very generous, and the giving has begun with the Kick Off to Christmas with our first responders, the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign, Gift of Christmas and Christmas Wish programs and many other initiatives across the city. There is great work being done across the city by agencies and businesses alike. Look for opportunities to get involved and be a part of making Christmas better for everyone.

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster