Aylmer's Christmas celebrations embrace tradition and community spirit
Tashi Farmilo
The Christmas season in Aylmer is a delightful blend of ongoing festivities and fond memories, featuring a mix of events that weave together the traditional and the contemporary to create a uniquely festive atmosphere.
The Mexicana Restaurant's Bazaar and Christmas Market, hosted on their popular patio, was a festive favorite, featuring vendors from the Bristol Farmers’ Market. Meanwhile, the Christmas Market at Le District, held on November 18, united the community for a day of joyful holiday shopping.
Similarly, the Marché de Noël au District on the same day provided a delightful shopping experience along with Le Groupe Maurice's 4th edition of the “Grand Marché de Noël” at L'Initial on November 25 was a resounding success.
Aubergiste Restaurant, located near Femme à Marier on Principale, hosted a charming sale of crochet items. Owner Véronique Plourde engaged warmly with shoppers, receiving well-wishes as she prepared to close the restaurant post-holidays. Meanwhile, the Knights of Columbus Hall was bustling with local crafters on November 25 and 26.
The Old Aylmer Christmas Market, a highlight of local holiday celebrations, showcases over 55 merchants.
Visitors can browse everything from Les Serres Nesbitts Greenhouses' elegant decorations to La Femme à Marier's delightful hot beverages and snacks. Open Thursday and Friday from 2-8 pm, and this weekend from 10-4 pm.
Santa arrives in town!
The beloved Santa Claus Parade, set for December 2, continues a cherished Aylmer tradition dating back to 1994. Promising a dazzling display of lights, music, and holiday cheer, it's an eagerly anticipated event that embodies the spirit of the season.
The 5e Baron's Christmas Tree-lighting ceremony, scheduled for December 1, will feature a stunning display of lights accompanied by live choir music and a variety of market treats. Concurrently, St. Andrew’s Church is offering an assortment of pies for sale, with orders accepted via phone at 819-684-5989 or email at brown111@sympatico.ca.
Pie pickups are arranged for December 9, between 10 am and 1 pm, during the Mini Christmas Bazaar at the church, located at 1, Eardley Road.
Enhancing the season's festivities, L’Imagier Art Centre is hosting an indoor Christmas market from December 2 to 4, an ideal event for art enthusiasts to discover unique gifts and support local artists.
Additionally, the Lord Aylmer Home and School Christmas Bazaar on December 2 promises a community-centric day of shopping, dining, and entertainment, complete with raffles, crafts, and a special visit with Santa.
In a gesture of solidarity with those in need, the upcoming Aylmer Food Center's Christmas Market, set for December 2 and 3 at the Aydelu Center, promises a festive shopping atmosphere while also contributing significantly to a vital local cause.
The Aylmer Community Theater Company welcomes the community to a festive event of readings and music suitable for all ages, with excerpts from The Grinch, Polar Express, Scrooge, and an array of wonderful Christmas music. This gathering is set for December 3 at 2 pm at the Aylmer United Church. Also, be sure to visit the South Hull Holiday Bazaar, happening at the South Hull gymnasium on December 3 from 9-1 pm.
The Aylmer Legion is actively promoting a campaign for residents to send holiday greetings to Canadian Forces members overseas. Cards can be mailed to:
Any member of the Canadian Forces
PO Box 5140 Succ Forces
Belleville, ON K8N 5W6
While tickets for their Festive Dinner on December 9 at 6 pm are sold out, the Aylmer Legion still invites you to the Senior & Friends Dinner on December 12 at noon, located at 59 Bancroft, Aylmer, QC. Be sure to get your tickets soon as space is limited.
Don't miss the chance to meet Santa at “Ballons Woopii” on December 2, 2:30-6:30, where there will also be an amazing balloon display, Grinch-themed hot chocolates, green cotton candy, Grinch balloons, and Grinch bath bombs, along with a visit from the crafty elf.
Photo caption: A glimpse into Aylmer's festive season: community, celebration, and holiday cheer.
Photo credit: Tashi Farmilo
