Get lit this weekend.
The annual Cochrane Light Up flicks the switch on this Saturday for the biggest street festival in Cochrane.
On Nov. 21, from 4:30-7:30 p.m., Cochrane will be packed with locals and people from near and far to join in the biggest annual community event to kick off Christmas.
“It is one of the best street festivals I have ever been to,” said volunteer co-ordinator Margi Storey.
For three hours, Cochrane Historical downtown will be full of people and non-stop activities such as hay rides, ice sculptures being carved, hula-hooping, 4cats, Joanne Howard photo booth, face painting by MJ, glitter tattoos, stilt walkers, Mrs. Claus shopping area, silent auction, children’s choirs, the Cochrane Fun Van and Santa Claus.
“It is just a really fun event and the turnout is always amazing,” Storey said.
Local businesses have sponsored more than 20 fire pots to be placed around the Cochrane’s historical downtown, with other donated funds going towards free hotdogs and hot chocolate being provided throughout the evening.
The 30-foot-tall LED Christmas tree with over 8,000 lights went up on the Rexall Drugs roof earlier this week in preparation to get lit up. And organizers tested the fireworks this past weekend – as Light Up always ends with a display of fireworks (weather permitting).
Organizers say they are still seeking volunteers and always accepting sponsorships.
“If you want to come and help – just show up,” Storey said, mentioning organizers are accepting volunteers day-of (with the exception of those working in the Igloo).
Last year, the event was known for falling on one of the chilliest nights resulting in a lower turnout estimated between 5,000-6,000 people. Organizers are hoping for better weather this year.
“Huddle around a fire pot and warm up,” Storey said with a laugh.
“The sheer volume of people keeps each other warm too – dress in layers and come out and have some fun.”
Children are also more than welcome, with a new family-friendly area featuring crafts and activities in the Igloo, which will be located in the Rexall parking lot.
“All volunteers in the tent have gone through their police check before they can volunteer – so the kids are completely safe,” Storey assured.
This year, Light Up will also be sponsoring four local families through the Adopt-a-Family program. Organizers contact the family asking for their wish-list and try their best to accommodate the wishes. A donation box will be set up at Light Up accepting gifts for the program, and all proceeds from the silent auction will also go towards the families in need.
“I think everything is looking good. We are in good shape – we’ve done this for a few years now so we know how to make it happen,” Storey said
“Main Street just fills up with community – it is just a really good feeling.”
Cochrane Eagle editorial page cartoonist Dave Elston will be in town for Light Up, signing his books at Home Quarter Mercantile, 216 First St. West. Elston will be signing his books from 5-7 p.m. during the Nov. 21 Light Up festivities.
For more information on Cochrane Light Up go the website at cochranelightup.com
