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Let there be light: Ladysmith’s holiday spirit shines brightly

Nov 29, 2018 | 10:34 AM

NANAIMO — Even in the darkest nights, downtown Ladysmith will be brighter than ever.

More than 200,000 Christmas lights flick on throughout the downtown around 6:30 p.m. when Santa visits the 31st annual Ladysmith Festival of Lights.

He’s expected to be greeted by thousands of people eager to see the small town become a beacon of holiday spirit.

Once the lights are on, a parade will wind it’s way through Ladysmith followed by fireworks.

Since the population of the town essentially doubles for one night, parking is always an issue.

First Ave. into Ladysmith will close at 3 p.m. Southbound traffic from Nanaimo quickly stacks up around 4 p.m. and parking spaces become almost non-existent.

Some of the best places to park are along Grouhel Rd. and Christie Rd. If you get there early enough, many spots can also be found along Ludlow Rd. and Oyster Bay Dr. There are also many churches on 4th Ave. which can be a great place to park if you’re okay with a bit of a walk.

The lights will stay on until the third week of January.

Full details can be found online here.

 

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