Christmas came early to Vancouver Island as Ladysmith shone brightly during its annual Light Up celebration on Thursday, Nov. 28. Organized by the volunteer-run Festival of Lights Society, the event dazzled an estimated 15,000 attendees with holiday cheer, entertainment and a parade that turned First Avenue into a winter wonderland.
The weather co-operated, offering crisp, clear skies perfect for enjoying the festivities. The Doctors of Rock played live, getting the crowd moving to a mix of hits and Christmas tunes. Adding to the magic, roving street performers — including stilt walkers, dancers, and jugglers in light-up costumes — captivated audiences of all ages. Sponsored by the Ladysmith & District Credit Union, the performances replaced fireworks this year and proved to be a big hit.
Visitors strolled along a festive First Avenue, where many shops stayed open late, offering treats, special deals, and a warm holiday welcome. Food trucks lined the streets, serving everything from hot cocoa to gourmet food, while free photo booths captured cherished memories for families and friends. Meanwhile, Aggie Hall bustled with activity as the annual craft fair offered a treasure trove of handmade gifts and local goodies.
Ladysmith's acting mayor Tricia McKay welcomed the crowd from the stage, thanking the many sponsors and volunteers who made the event possible. Then, all eyes turned to Santa Claus, the star of the show, who led the countdown before flipping the switch to illuminate Ladysmith’s iconic Christmas lights and decorations. The moment, as always, was met with cheers, gasps, and the sparkle of thousands of twinkling lights.
This year’s parade was a standout, featuring a dazzling array of floats, dancers, and festive entries that made their way down a street lined with smiling onlookers.
For decades, the Ladysmith Light Up has been a cornerstone of holiday celebrations on Vancouver Island, and this year was no exception. From live music and mesmerizing street performances to the parade and twinkling lights, the event captured the essence of the season, leaving attendees with memories to cherish.
As the countdown to Christmas begins, Ladysmith once again shines as a must-visit holiday destination. Santa himself would surely agree — this is one pre-Christmas stop worth making every year.
