The Vermilion Chamber of Commerce held the Kick-off to Christmas events on November 22, including the Night Light Christmas Parade titled ‘Oh Christmas Tree’ and the Festival of Trees. With warmer weather conditions, spectators gathered on the parade route to watch as the streets lit up with glittering Christmas lights as the floats passed by, and Santa wished everyone a Merry Christmas. “The parade started in 1991, and I am so happy for the turnout in all the events. The community support has been amazing,” said Vermilion Chamber Office Manager, Shannon Leonard. During the Night Light Parade the Jr. B. Tigers once again held their hotdog fundraiser at the ATCO building. The Jr. B. Hockey Team volunteered their time cooking hotdogs and serving hot chocolate. After the parade, families gathered together at the Lakeland Mall to attend the different events offered. The Rotary Club provided hot chocolate, apple cider, and homemade cookies from November 22- 24 for donations to the Haying In the 30’s Cancer Support Group. “The first night is always very busy and the money raised will help people affected with cancer and their families with costs such as lodging, fuel, etc. We don’t have the official fundraiser total from the money donated in exchange for cookies, however we anticipate it to be over $3500,” said Vermilion Rotary Club member Janine Lange. The Vermilion Chamber of Commerce Festival of Trees made an appearance at the Lakeland Mall in the old Brick location from November 22-24. Everyone who attended had the opportunity to bid on the 14 trees entered by businesses and non-profit organizations as well as being able to vote for their favourite tree. Money raised from each tree is donated to the charity of the organizations choice. Also, on sale in the same location were quilts provided from Extraordinary Extras upon their closing with 50 per cent of sales going to Haying in the 30’s. Visitors with children were provided the opportunity to leave their children with local young dancers from Dance Impressions by Ryan who offered a babysitting service in the old Brick space in exchange for a donation to the organization. The Biz Kids also made an appearance over the three days selling their wares. The Hallway of Handicrafts was held at the Mall where area vendors presented their wares for attendees to shop and view. Something was there for everyone. “This was the largest Hallway of Handicrafts with 52 vendors and 92 tables; there is a great variety of items from homemade baked goods, handicrafts, well-known product lines, jewellery and more. Next year the Chamber is taking over the Hallway of Handicrafts,” said this year’s organizer Angie McDonald.
