Brechin and Beyond has decided it’s high time its village had a community Christmas celebration.
The volunteer group has organized its first annual Brechin Christmas Kick-Off, which will take place Dec. 3, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the Township of Ramara offices in Brechin.
“We’re always looking for new opportunities to promote the township. Our mandate is to create pride in our township. This is a great way to residents involved,” said Janet Johnson, secretary with Brechin and Beyond.
The free event will include a performance by the Foley Catholic School choir, a seasonal music sing-along, photos with a “very fashionable Santa” outfitted by Dapper Depot, free hot chocolate, and the lighting of the Christmas tree.
Everyone who visits will be entered in a raffle for the chance to win a painting donated by Brechin artist Catherine Cadieux.
Students from Foley Catholic School and Brechin Public School have put their creativity to use, creating 12 wreaths that will be on display during the event. The wreaths were created using tires from the decorative bicycles that adorned Brechin’s streets in the summer.
“It’s important that the students understand the importance of community and getting involved,” Johnson said. “With the schools involved, it makes it more special.”
The township collects food and toy donations every year at its administrative offices, and that will be part of the Brechin Christmas Kick-Off. Visitors are encouraged to bring food and toys, which will be distributed to the village’s two schools to be given to students in need. Any leftover items will go to shelters and food banks in Orillia.
“We have so much, and Christmas is a good time to give back,” Johnson said.
It’s an event for the entire family, and community, she stressed.
“It’s important for not only the kids, but the adults as well, to have a wholesome, festive celebration that involves the whole family and the community.”
