For the first time ever, Lake Cowichan is showcasing its Christmas-themed, festively decorated houses on the Christmas Light Up Tour.
Presented by Cowichan Lake Community Services, the inaugural run of the Christmas Light Up Tour took place on Dec. 4. The Light Up Tour will be happening the next two weekends, as well on Dec. 11 and 18. The tour bus leaves Community Services at 6:30 p.m.
Community Services donated the bus for the tour’s usage. The route includes many of the town’s hot spots, including the Visitor Information Centre and museum area, Forest Memorial Park, Town Hall, the Seniors Centre, Evergreen Place, Central Park, Neva Road, the Lake Cowichan Fire Department and more.
Town councillor, Jayne Ingram played a role in helping organize the Light Up Tour. She thought the Light Up Tour was a wonderful idea, especially for Lake Cowichan’s senior community and those who might not have a vehicle.
“I think it’s an awesome idea to take some our seniors and people who are not fortunate enough to have a vehicle to drive around and have a view of the lights in our town that have been provided by all the businesses and volunteers in Public Works. We’ve arranged this for people who are maybe not able get out and drive and see all the beautiful lights.
Ingram was overly thrilled to be involved.
“I think this is a great kick-off to the hamper fund that is going to take off on Dec. 14 and getting people in the spirit of giving and it doesn’t have to be huge, it’s just small token that can be a great giving thing,” she added.
Sherry Sohye was one of the Light Up Tour’s passengers. Sohye was ecstatic to be one of the first people to experience the tour.
“We decided it was a good time to come tonight before it gets too crowded on the next two Sundays. We are so excited because we haven’t been through town and seen any of the lights yet,” said Sohye.
Amanda Sawatzky of Community Services is the tour’s volunteer driver.
“I’m going to have a blast. I think it’s a great opportunity to have people, especially those who wouldn’t normally have transport vehicles to see all the lights in town. I’m thrilled to be able to volunteer and drive and do this on behalf of Community Services,” said Sawatzky.