Get ready for a magical afternoon filled with holiday cheer at the City of Parksville’s annual 'Cookies, Carols and More' event.
The event goes from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 7 at the Jensen Centre (132 Jensen Ave. E), according to a news release by the city.
"Gather your kids, families, friends, and neighbours to join in the festivities and fun," the release said. "Parksville Council is pleased to host this free event for a second year and look forward to seeing you there, spreading joy and holiday cheer. This event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season with your community, forge new friendships, and create lasting memories. Everyone welcome."
Here are some of the activities planned:
• Live music and entertainment: delight in the music of Easy Street Duo and local song leader, Sylvia Humble, for a carol singalong;
• Crafts and games for children and parents: unleash your creativity with an array of holiday-themed crafts. Children and parents can collaborate to create beautiful decorations, charming ornaments and other delightful projects to take home and treasure. Some fun games have been added to keep little ones entertained;
• Visit from Santa: Santa Claus himself will make a special appearance. Bring your cameras for a magical photo opportunity with Santa and share your wish lists with the jolly old man. The event will have everything needed to write a letter to Santa, mailed just in time;
• Christmas cookies and hot chocolate bar: savour a delectable assortment of cookies and warm up with a cup of hot chocolate from our hot chocolate bar, customized with marshmallows, whipped cream and other scrumptious toppings;
• Face-painting: Add a touch of festive flair with holiday-themed face-painting. Whether you want to transform into a reindeer, a sparkling snowflake, or a twinkling Christmas tree, talented face painters will bring your holiday spirit to life.
"We look forward to welcoming you to Cookies, Carols and More! on Dec. 7," the release said. "Should you wish, donations of nonperishable items will be accepted for the Salvation Army food bank. Everyone is welcome at this free holiday event."
After Nov. 20, the North Pole mailbox will be available at 100 Jensen Ave. E ready to collect letters for Santa. Once again, children can bring letters or write one here, envelopes are ready and no postage is necessary.