“I’m bummed it was cancelled.”
Out of the mouths of babes — that sentiment shared by nine-year-old Sara Walmsley sums up the feelings for all involved in a holiday tradition in a Langley neighbourhood, which has been cancelled due to the actions of a Christmas Grinch.
For 24 years the Williams Park neighbourhood has been decked out in thousands of Christmas lights, decorations and displays, but in late October a thief stole more than $10,000 worth of decorations. The organizing committee didn’t find out about the theft until their planning meeting in November and by then, it was too late to raise the money needed to replace the stolen goods.
“There’s just not enough time to raise the volunteer base, the entertainment, there are so many things, so we cancelled it,” said Barbara Sharp, president of the Williams Park Society for Langley.
“That’s why I call it the Grinch who stole Christmas.”
It’s not the first time a theft has impacted the Williams Park Christmas event. Last year, the container that stores the decorations and equipment was hit by thieves but it was discovered earlier in the year and organizers had time to replace the items.
Every year since 1991, the society’s volunteers have been transforming the park with Christmas lights and decorations for all to enjoy. Starting in December and spanning two weeks, the event also includes two nights of entertainment, horse and carriage rides, food and a visit from Santa.
“It’s a free event that’s funded totally by donations and the Township of Langley…,” Sharp said.
“It’s very special because the community owns it.”
For Langley resident Michael Thorne, putting the kids in the car, getting some hot chocolate and driving through the park has been a family tradition.
“It’s a loss, there are a lot of things that makes communities special and for Langley this is one of them,” Thorne said.
With two children, eight and five years old, it’s something Thorne looks forward to every year.
“I see it through my kids’ eyes, the light display,” he said.
“A lot of people say the light display is a lot larger in our kids’ eyes then it is for the adults.”
Since Sharp has gotten the word out about the theft there’s been a lot of disappointment but also a groundswell of support. Along with people coming forward with offers of lights and equipment, there are fundraising efforts springing up too. A fundraising website has been set up to raise $10,000 and “help turn the lights and magic back on.”
Even though raising $10,000 is a long-shot, Sharp is more than willing to give it a try.
“We see the community rallying,” Sharp said.
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