The Spirit of Christmas is returning to Bragg Creek Nov. 29 to Dec. 1.
The popular Christmas festival set in the beautiful woods and mountains of the picturesque hamlet brings the entire community together, said Shaye Radford, who is the volunteer lead helping to coordinate the event on behalf of the Bragg Creek Community Association. The festival brings many from the larger region out to enjoy the experience as well.
“The Spirit of Christmas is an annual event in Bragg Creek,” explained Radford in a recent interview. “It is supported by the Bragg Creek Community Centre and the Bragg Creek Chamber of Commerce, and a ton of local businesses who also support it.”
Highlights include events such as maple taffy pulling on snow, horse-drawn wagon rides, facepainting, gingerbread house and Christmas cookie decorating, ornament making, storytelling at the Snowbirds Chalet, and a vibrant Christmas market featuring over 50 vendors and local artisans at the Bragg Creek Community Centre. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also make an appearance at the Community Centre to hear the Christmas wishes of the kids.
“I think the experience is pretty classic Bragg Creek,” said Radford. “It’s kind of celebrating and appreciating all things about winter. So it’s a ton of outdoor stuff; there will be walking in between the events. I would definitely recommend dressing for the weather. People will be greeted by a warm, friendly community.”
Visitors are welcome to park their cars and take advantage of the horse-drawn shuttle service which moves between five main stopping points to make getting around easier. Most local businesses have something special on offer for the event, and Radford encourages everyone coming out to take their time and really explore the hamlet.
For the young ones, there will also be a return of the Kids-Only Store at The Post House, where children can purchase Christmas gifts for family members for around $5 each.
“For that one, we would really appreciate it if people can go online to eventbrite.ca and search Kids-Only Store Bragg Creek, and book their free timed ticket,” said Radford. “Depending how busy it gets, we can’t always guarantee there won’t be a line up or you won’t be waiting awhile. So if you could pre-book online, that would be really helpful for us.”
Radford encouraged those wanting to come out for the Spirit of Christmas to view the three-day event schedule on the Bragg Creek Community Association website. All three days of the festival feature different one-time attractions which are not available on the other days of the event.
For more details and the schedule of events visit braggcreekca.com.
