Home for the Holidays

It’s hard to believe another year is almost at an end.  I’d imagine for you, like me, it’s been a busy one full of both challenges and great moments to remember.  I’ve especially enjoyed our neighbourhood celebrations such as Gathering on the Green, the Jazz and Blues Festival, and Halloween in the Village. I can’t say enough about our amazing neighbours who work so hard to bring such vibrancy to our community every year.  They deserve all the credit we can give them. 

Over the coming weeks, it will really start to feel a lot more like the holidays are upon us. There are so many things I look forward to this time of year including Christmas in the Village, the Old South Community Organization Christmas Tree sale, and all of the holiday music concerts throughout town, just to name a few!  (Now, imagine how festive it will feel if we get a little snow to go with it). 

Now, I’m going to let you in on a little secret about my favourite thing to do in London over the holidays, and it may actually be my favourite thing to do in London, period…

Each year in December, City Hall opens up the observation deck on the top floor from the night of the Lighting of the Lights until the end of the year.  From there, you can get the best views of the glimmering lights of Victoria Park and see the glowing expanse of the rest of our city.  It’s a magical way to spend a winter evening in London.  The observation deck is open 7pm to 11pm every night from December 1 to December 30 (except December 12, 25 and 26).  And don’t forget, as soon as we can get ice, there will be skating in the park, as well!

So as you start to make your plans for the holidays, I hope you’ll get the chance to take in some of the fun things happening here.  If you’re having guests from out of town, find some time to show off our neighbourhood, too.  We have a lot to be proud of.  And, as you do your holiday shopping, be sure to check out some great gift ideas in the unique shops of Wortley Village.  Never underestimate the impact that shopping local can have on sustaining a vibrant community.

I hope that you all have a great holiday, that you get to spend time with those important to you, and that you find the opportunity to relax and wrap up the year in the most meaningful way.  Be safe, be well, and I wish you all the best for a very Happy New Year.