The Grey-Bruce Singers presented “Sounds of the Season” to full houses at the Hanover Civic Theatre this past weekend. Many, many local residents are members of the choir, directed by Dianne Leith and Chris Patterson, and for many other local residents attending the annual concert presented by their friends and neighbors is truly the beginning of the Christmas season.
For others the Christmas season officially begins this weekend when Santa arrives in Mount Forest, thanks once again to the Mount Forest Lions Club and the annual Santa Claus parade.
Santa has been in the area a couple of times already – on Nov. 19 in Owen Sound, last Saturday in Markdale, Arthur, Walkerton and Elora. This weekend he is extremely busy – beginning with his appearance in the truly spectacular Mount Forest parade on Friday night. Thanks the sponsoring Lions Club and the participation of local businesses, organizations and individuas, we have a wonderful parade. It was one of the first evening parades in the area. Now lots of communities are following suit. On Saturday Santa will be in Durham at 12:30, Dundalk at 6 p.m., Meaford at 6:30 and both Wiaraton and Hanover at 7 p.m. On Sunday he is in Neustadt at 4 and the next weekend, Dec. 10, in Holstein at 1 p.m.
The Grey County Tourism Winter 2011 winter newsletter was issued on Nov. 25 and, in addition to listing local parades, the Holstein parade is mentioned specifically.
“If you only have time for one (parade) this year, consider the Holstein Non-Motorized Santa Claus Parade on Dec. 10,” the newsletter says. “This playful and picturesque event features floats pulled by draft animals of all kinds, from perfectly matched teams of Clydesdales and Percherons to miniature horses, dogs and even goats!”
The Holstein parade is described as “truly a delight for all ages” and for it truly is.
Start your Christmas season Friday night at the Mount Forest parade and why not slot in a few others, including Holstein.  You’ll be glad you did.