The family-friendly Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration returns to Guild Park Saturday evening, December 5th from 7:00 to 8:00. The traditional Christmas ceremony is free and features a carol sing-a-long, hot chocolate and cider, a reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, plus a special visit by Santa Claus. It continues the popular event held for decades on the grounds of the old Guild Inn, hosted by former its owners, Rosa and Spencer Clark.
Date: Saturday December 6th
Time: Start at 7:00 pm; Tree lighting at approx. 7:20 pm; Finish by about 8:00 pm
Where: Guild Park & Gardens, 201 Guildwood Pkwy., Scarborough.
Activities take place in front of the old Guild Inn building (now under renovation). Due to construction now underway at Guild Park, on-site parking is limited to fewer than 20 spaces. Organizers recommend people either walk to the event or park their vehicles in the parking lots of the schools adjacent to Guild Park. People are encouraged to bring their own mugs, so they can enjoy hot drinks and reduce the use of disposable cups at the event. Last year, about 250 people – mainly families with children – attended.
“The Christmas season really starts when people see the Christmas tree in Guild Park light up,” said John Mason, President of Friends of Guild Park. This volunteer organization has hosted the event since 2013. “It’s great to see families get outside, meet their friends and neighbours and enjoy a traditional holiday event on a historic setting right here in Scarborough,” Mason added.
The event is free, with donations accepted to help defray costs.