Bells are ringing in Historic Downtown Abbotsford in preparation of the Christmas tree lighting this evening. Elves scurry through Santa's room, adjusting bells and balls, as they wait for Santa to arrive in a 1967 fire truck, followed by the Silverfox Squadron Marching Band.
The main stage is filled with dancers and singers, while families wander through the streets enjoying free cookies and hot chocolate. The sun is shining, the spirit of Christmas is in the air, and crowds are slowly growing the closer it gets to the lighting of the tree at 5 p.m.
President of the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association is happy that the event has been successful for the past 23 years, and believes it is something that "brings the community together."
At 5 p.m., the tree will light up the night, with a few surprise lights, and bring the holiday spirit to Abbotsford.