SUNDRE – There was a lot going on around town this past Friday for the community’s annual holiday shop local event that also features plenty of family-friendly activities.
Sundown in Sundre is the collaborative result of organizers from the Sundre and District Chamber of Commerce as well as the Sundre and District Museum working in partnership with not only local businesses but also other community service groups.
“Sundown is a great community partnership that opens the Christmas spirit and season in Sundre,” said Carrie Couch, the museum's executive director.
“It not only showcases our great businesses and community venues but it also brings awareness to our community needs,” said Couch.
That for example includes the Sundre Palliative Care Association’s Tree of Hope lighting ceremony over at the Myron Thompson Health Centre, which serves as a reminder about the members of the community who have passed away and those who are in mourning, while also extending a message of hope for those who remain, she said.
And this year, she added proceeds from the museum’s Festival of Wreaths silent auction fundraiser will be allocated to the Sundre Nutrition for Learning Society.
“It was wonderful to see so many families out enjoying the evening festivities.”
Included among the lineup of activities were photos at the museum with Santa, who courtesy of an escort from No Surrender Fire Services arrived in town at the ball diamonds behind River Valley School to visit with children before also making an appearance at the Sundre Seniors Supportive Living centre, a nativity petting zoo at Freson Bros. western parking lot, hot chocolate and cookie decorating at The Den – Sundre Youth Centre, a craft market at the Elks hall, a warming station with a pit fire at the Back to Basics parking lot, and a hunt for an elusive Elf on a Shelf at participating businesses.
