CORNWALL, Ontario – Crowds gathered outside the Justice Building once again this year, to celebrate the start of the holiday season with the second annual community Christmas tree lighting.
“It’s really just a community event. The tree goes up, and we thought, why not have a little event, with YourTV here? Tonight, we’ve got music, hot chocolate and we have the Agape Centre and Salvation Army here to invite people to get into the giving spirit of the season.”
“This is the second year we are doing this. This year we’re back, and we’re hoping for bigger and better things,” said Kevin Lajoie, spokesperson for the City of Cornwall and organizer for the night’s event.
“We’ve got a little bit of music, then we light the tree.”
The only star of the night that wasn’t on top of the Christmas tree was Serenity Filella, age 9, who won the lucky opportunity to light this year’s 38 feet tall tree. Filella was joined by Mayor Leslie O’Shaughnessy for the special moment.
Families were treated to live musical performances from a number of acts including Kevin Rivette, Sparky, and the Cornwall Professional Firefighters Association, along with hot chocolate and treats, and most importantly, hang out with Santa himself.
The Christmas tree was donated by Strathmore Tree Orchard from South Stormont, and towed to its location in front of the Justice building by Metro towing, with decorations by Black & Mcdonald, the Cornwall Community Police Services, and the City of Cornwall.
“It’s a nice focal point when you’re coming downtown.” said Lajoie.
