It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas here

Let it Snow

Our Christmas tree went up yesterday after it was obvious the world was not going to end and we would all live to see December 25...just joking. Anyway, those following me on instagram would have seen the tree. However, we had gone for the symbolic lighting of the tree in a neighboring city weeks ago, which was when Christmas started around these parts. Shopping went into high gear and decorations and lights went up around the city center.

I chose for us to forego the lighting ceremony in our city and go for the neighboring one cos theirs had more adventure. While the highlight remained the lighting of the tree, following it was something called a Luminary Walk along a River Bank. I was sold.

I put on my parka and boots and prepared for a tramp through the dark woods. What it turned out to be was an almost magical walk along a trail lined with hundreds of luminaries - little paper lanterns placed in a row on the pathway. There were carolers, drum tattoo, and amazing decorations and light displays.

Ready, set, go :)

The Luminary

The lighted walkway

A proper Scottish Drum Tattoo - took me all the way back to my time in Edinburgh

Light displays and decorations

The enthusiastic carol conductor

Wrapped fot the cold - a Bell Orchestra

More lights, including on a giant crane to right

Aloha Entertainers

Light display of a toy train. The walkway was also packed with people

Nearing the end of the walk and an anticipated hot drink

I was so glad we went though I was quite cold by the end of the walk. We met up with a friend and instead of just drinks we opted for dinner. It was indeed a lovely start to Christmas.

Have a great weekend, and happy holidays everyone!