River Lights underway

River Lights kicked off last Saturday with the tree lighting and fireworks.

It’s officially Christmas season in Amherstburg.

Mayor Michael Prue and hundreds of visitors and local residents alike counted down to the lighting of the tree at Navy Yard Park last Saturday night at 6 p.m.

The annual tradition that dates back nearly 20 years was celebrated with carolling, hot chocolate, storytelling and the amazing fireworks display along the Detroit River front.

The Provincial Marine fired a cannon.

“I wait for this day all year. It’s my favourite night of the year,” said Prue.

Centred around the clock tower at the corner of Richmond St. and Dalhousie St., the night began with the annual Super Santa Run in which many donned Santa suits and ran or walked to the cheers of those who lined the streets.

Town crier Norm Ross welcomes the crowd to River Lights.

It was a particularly fun event for children and the mayor had a message especially for them.

“I hope you all have a safe and wonderful holiday this year. I hope all you kids get everything you want for Christmas but you have to remember to be good.”

They certainly were on their best behaviour as after they helped the mayor count down from ten to light the big tree, they moved down to the waterfront for a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the sky during a weather-perfect night.

Prue thanked those, including major sponsor Enbridge for their contribution to the evening and to the many volunteers who helped out.

“This is the best town and you people make it that way.”

Introducing the mayor and announcing all the activities that go with the River Lights Winter Festival was Amherstburg town crier Norm Ross, who is enjoying his first Christmas in the official role.

“Storyteller Seamus Gunn sharing galas with a yule time tale, and legend that has stood the test of time and stirs the spirit of all who here it,” proclaimed Ross.

Attendees enjoyed fireworks over the Detroit River.

Gunn was at the Commissariat where he told stories. The Park House Museum was also open and the wonderful Gingerbread Warming House at Toddy Jones Park was busy with visitors, described by Ross as “lovingly created by Amherstburg’s own.”

River Lights Winter Festival runs until Jan. 4 and includes hundreds of luminated displays at the Navy Yard Park and Toddy Jones Park.

Amherstburg’s Santa Claus Parade will be held Saturday. Presented by the Windsor Parade Corporation, it begins at 6 p.m. and will again start at Sandwich St. North near William St., head south on Sandwich St. and also utilize Richmond St. and Dalhousie St. where it will end at Toddy Jones Park.

River Lights underway

By Fred Groves