Moonlight madness is gearing up to be this year’s major Parksville Christmas celebration.
Most downtown stores will be open late to kick-start the shopping season next Friday, Nov. 30 in the Parksville Downtown Business Association (PDBA) sponsored event.
Mark Jones of the Coastal Community Credit Union and Gurdeep Nagra of Saheli Boutique invite everyone to join them for their coinciding food and toy drive from 5 to 9 p.m.
They ask people to bring food for the Salvation Army or a toy for the SOS (Society of Organized Services) and enjoy the festive atmosphere in the credit union parking lot.
Santa Clause will be on site along with a live band, Christmas carols, hot chocolate and other treats.
“This community really needs some Christmas enjoyment,” Nagra said, adding that it is not just a shopping event, but a chance for the community to come out and enjoy each others company.
“It’s not just a food drop-off, people will enjoy themselves,” Jones agreed. “The idea is to draw people into the festive spirit.”
“Parksville Downtown has convenient clusters of one of a kind shops and services you just won’t find in a larger commercial centre,” said PDBA president Michelle Jones. “PDBA has had a core group of business people working since the end of August to bring a true small town shopping experience to the Christmas holiday season.”
Bring a food or toy item and receive a discount at Saheli Boutique.
Mark Jones said, being new to town he really hopes to make it an annual event and they are putting a lot of energy into making it a success.
Moonlight madness will take place through the downtown core that evening and the food and toy drive will be in the parking lot between the businesses at 140 Alberni Highway.
Both businesses, along with Bodyworks Fitness, Pacific Brimm and Parksville Home Hardware are accepting donations before the event.
For more information visit parksvilledowntown.ca or parksvilledowntown on Facebook.