The folks at Little Qualicum Cheeseworks are once again inviting the community to Morningstar Farm for a day of music, storytelling, crafts and cheer.
The Christmas on the Farm event, running for about a dozen years now, will take place Saturday, Dec. 16 this year, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Carol-wagon rides will ferry individuals and families from Morningstar Golf Course (as the farm’s parking quickly gets full). Admission to the event is free, but the price of a ride is participating in a little song, said Ray Haynes, one of the event organizers.
Performers will be there on the wagon to lead riders in song, including Maureen O’Hearn, Bev Finch, Rick McAllister, Diane Mitchell and others.
Once arrived, there will be musical performances on stage by groups and individual musicians, including members of the Parksville and District community band under the direction of Paul Rathke, pianists Dave Klinger, Wes Lade, and the Oceanside Winds Sax Quartet with Wayne Finucan, Don McConnell, Geoff Williams and Haynes.
Another attraction includes story time in the Mooseum, with author Rachel Muller.
There will also be crafts for kids, the Christmas Calfe, free hot chocolate and popcorn, as well as a bonfire with marshmallows for roasting.
Visitors will be able to meet some of the animals on the farm, as well as a miniature horse named Sniper.
Sniper and owner Maureen Ward will be taking kids on mini wagon rides once again this year.
About 1,000 people attended last year’s Christmas on the Farm, with a fair layer of snow adding to the Christmastime vibe.
Though Haynes said he couldn’t guarantee snow for this year’s event, he said the atmosphere will nonetheless be one of happiness and fun.
“It is our gift to the community,” he said of the event, noting that the farm is open all-year round.
“We like to think (the event) is close enough to Christmas that some of your shopping is out of the way, and people can relax a little and enjoy the spirit of Christmas,” which is added to with a nativity display, he said.
Asked what his favourite part of the event is, Haynes said jumping on the Carol-Wagon and leading people in song with his saxophone.
“It’s fun to do (this event), and it’s the music that makes it,” he said.
Christmas on the Farm takes place Saturday, Dec. 16 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 403 Lowrys Rd. in Parksville.
For more info, call 250-954-3931 or email info@cheeseworks.ca.