Carnival of Lights (submitted photo/MHC)

By Pete McIntyre

Nov. 26

Holiday event returning to Vernon with new host

Oct 31, 2022 | 10:49 AM

A popular holiday season celebration is returning to Vernon with a new name and host.

The Downtown Light Up was held for more than 25 years by the Downtown Vernon Association which ended its participation in 2019, saying it was no longer sustainable to put on.

The Vernon Winter Carnival Society has taken over the organizing, and is planning “The Carnival of Lights, Presented by MHC Mortgage House,” on Saturday, Nov. 26, from 5 to 8 p.m. in Spirit Square and Civic Plaza (near City Hall).

“VWC had committed to taking on this community event two years ago after the Downtown Vernon Association decided to not host it anymore,” Vicki Proulx, executive director of Vernon Winter Carnival Society, said. “After two years of COVID restrictions, we’re thrilled to be able to finally host the event we had envisioned.”

Proulx said the celebration will be a mix of holiday light up traditions and features to allow newer residents to connect to the community.

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“The Carnival of Lights is a free community event that will feature entertainment, food vendors, crafts, games and local vendors. For those looking to get a jump on their shopping, there will also be holiday gift ideas available for purchase,” Proulx added.

Vernon Winter Carnival will be decorating Spirit Square with thousands of lights and light features thanks to the support of Fox Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical. The light display will officially be switched on Nov. 26 during the Carnival of Lights event and will remain on each night through to December 31.

The lights will again be lit for Winter Carnival, from February 3-12, 2023.

Businesses, community organizations and vendors are encouraged to reserve their space at the event and help kick off the holiday season. Those wishing to participate as vendors can find more information by emailing info@vernonwintercarnival.com or visit their website at vernonwintercarnival.com