Historic Downtown Abbotsford kicks off the festive season with the 34th Winter Jubilee on Saturday, Nov. 18.
The free event runs from 4 to 8:30 p.m. in the area of Essendene and Montrose avenues and includes the lighting of the 60-foot Christmas tree at 7 p.m. The tree will be decorated in solid red, with daily pattern changes.
The evening also includes appearances by Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and the Grinch; a life-sized snow globe that guests can enter; a holiday-themed photo booth with festival props; and shopping at the downtown businesses.
Live music will be provided by Topaz, Lions Gate Chorus, and roaming carollers, with stage entertainment by the MEI Chamber Singers, the MEI Marching Band, and the Noftle Experiment.
Also featured are holiday-themed vendors and activities for children, such as a cookie-decorating station, face-painting, a crafts tent, reindeer games and a station to write letters to Santa.
Eight food trucks will be on hand with signature treats: Wingerz, Tubster’s Mini Donuts, Shawarma Time, L’il Joes, The Candy Curio, B&B Concessions, Golden Bannock and Dutchlicious Catering.
The Winter Wonder Lounge will feature street-side concession vendors and festive drinks, including sips from local breweries, wineries and cideries.
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The all-ages Winter Jubilee has attracted thousands of people over three decades.
Historic Downtown Abbotsford is a well-known filming location for Hallmark movies such as Countdown to Christmas, The Nine Kittens of Christmas, A Christmas Treasure, An Unexpected Christmas, My Christmas Family Tree and Eight Gifts of Hanukkah.
The theme to this year’s Winter Jubilee is Nordic with details such as cedar boughs and knitted and knotted blankets, but Hallmark touches will be evident throughout the decorated downtown streets.
“We love bringing this holiday tradition to Historic Downtown Abbotsford and delighting our guests with a big small-town welcome,” said Jennifer McEwan, executive director of the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association.
“We love sharing our local tastes and artisan products.”
Historic Downtown Abbotsford’s Winter Sip ‘n Shop scene runs from Nov. 30 to Dec. 14, featuring festive cocktails, music-filled sidewalks, branded shopping totes, shopping and dining specials, and a chance to win 500 Historic Downtown Abbotsford dollars.
Visit downtownabbotsford.ca for more information.