Light Up keeping tradition alive

A small town tradition that brings thousands of people to downtown Black Diamond has a few additions this year. Light Up Black Diamond kicks off Dec. 1 at 5 p.m. with the lighting of a 30-foot tree donated by Urban Systems earlier this year. “We’re very excited that we have something to light up this year,” said Kelly Tuck, special events co-ordinator. “The tree was planted in September in the frontyard of the municipal office.” The municipal centre is the central location for many activities throughout the evening including pictures with Santa Claus and in an oversized snow globe, hay rides through the downtown and a bus that will take people to view Christmas lights throughout the community. The festivities end at 9 p.m. “It’s going to be a happening place,” said Tuck of Black Diamond. “Light Up has become a tradition in the community. People look forward to the celebration.” Forty Black Diamond businesses will open their doors that evening with house specials, prizes, sweets and beverages, said Tuck. “Part of Light Up is about reminding people to shop local,” she said. “We talk about wanting to have amenities in our communities, but we can’t keep those amenities if we’re not shopping locally.” Black Diamond’s unique shops offer a shopping experience that’s unique to the town of more than 2,500 people, Tuck said. The downtown will have firepits scattered throughout, roasted chestnuts with proceeds going to the Rowan House Emergency Shelter, a live nativity and a wagon pulled by Clydesdales shuttling people between Hard Knox Brewery for cookie decorating and Centre Street. “There’s an excitement in the air each year at Light Up, you can feel it,” said Tuck. “There’s conversations and laughter and anticipation when you go into the next store.” A market will be held at the Griffiths Seniors Centre on Government Road featuring a variety of vendors and the draw for the Western Wheel gift cards and a gift basket with items donated by local businesses will follow the lighting of the tree. Those wanting to get an early start on Light Up can browse the more than 30 vendors at the Diamond Valley Christmas Market in neighbouring Turner Valley at the Flare ‘n’ Derrick Community Hall from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds will be collected for the High Country SPCA through a Christmas display for people to take photographs of children and pets, breakfast and lunch, and raffle tables. SPCA president Susi John said the market raises $3,000 to $6,000. “It’s our most important fundraiser of the year,” said John. “If we don’t get that money then eventually we’re going to run out.” The money covers expenses to house, spay and neuter stray and abandoned pets and veterinary care for owners unable to pay. Those looking to have a booth in the Diamond Valley Christmas Market can call 403-807-2273. Also taking place on Dec. 1 is The Most Beautiful Art Tour in Alberta, which invites the public to seven art studios and galleries across the Foothills. The Leighton Art Centre has its Youth Work exhibit featuring art from junior and senior high school students. In Turner Valley, Mady Thiel-Kopstein will demonstrate painting techniques and Susan Kristoferson offers paper art demonstrations. In Black Diamond, Bluerock Gallery has gallery exhibitions and pop-up markets featuring ceramic artists and Firebrand Glass Studio will have glass blowing demonstrations. Lineham House Galleries in Okotoks will feature its exhibit True North Strong and Free with artists and artisans demonstrating and sharing their art with Canadian-themed refreshments, and Eversfield Ceramics near Hartell will feature clay demonstrations. For more details visit themostbeautifularttourinalberta.ca