The annual Christmas on the Peninsula event in uptown White Rock is taking a new direction this holiday season. Or the parade is, at least.
Organizers announced Nov. 14 that a new route has been set for the festive procession, following complications with the previous start and end points, as well as road works.
Set to pace off at 4 p.m. on Nov. 30, the "much shorter" display of holiday spirit will follow Russell Avenue from St. John's Presbyterian Church (1480 George St.) to Miramar Village Plaza (15154 Russell Ave.).
"But all the previous favourite entries will take part as well as some new ones," event founder Liv Butow promises in a news release.
At the plaza, White Rock Mayor Megan Knight will flip the switch to light up a "huge" Christmas tree provided by Bosa Properties.
"We will have a duo singing, and there will be a sing-along as well as free hot chocolate."
As in previous years, event festivities will get underway much earlier in the day. Starting at 10 a.m., visitors can peruse the Christmas Market – featuring goodies and the wares of local artisans – in and around the White Rock Community Centre, enjoy live entertainment (including by carollers in traditional Victorian dress), create hands-on holiday projects, tour the plaza on a trackless train, enjoy a "meet and greet" with donkeys and saunter up to the concession for some traditional Christmas treats.
The festival continues through to 5 p.m.
