The annual Parks Meadows Estates Christmas lights display is and always has been free to the public for viewing. But donations are heavily relied upon, not only for the residents' annual donation to the food bank, but also for the maintenance and upkeep of the display, which is 100 per cent volunteer driven.--NEWS FILE PHOTO
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
As preparations for the Park Meadows Estates Christmas display are underway, those at work to bring Holiday cheer are seeking support from the community.
The popular Christmas decorations are the result of roughly a month of volunteer work from residents of Park Meadows, says organizer Cal Niebergall. The tradition has been ongoing for roughly 23 years, only taking a break during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While viewing of the display is free, the group does collect donations throughout the runtime, which goes toward covering maintenance of the decorations and a yearly donation to the Root Cellar.
“It is really a big part of the community and people’s celebration of Christmas, it is purely volunteer hours from the residents that put it together,” said Niebergall.
Donations have been down in recent years, says organizer Bert LaFrance, by as much as half. As such, while they are committed to keeping the display free of charge to view, they are seeking some help to continue keeping this valued part of the Medicine Hat Holiday Season to its usual calibre.
“We’re asking people to please not bring their dogs in,” said Niebergall. “The trails are narrow in the dark, and we already clean up a lot after the deer.”
Other asks, outside considering a donation, are to please stay on the trails to the best of a visitor’s ability, to park outside and walk in and to ensure all garbage is carried out or disposed of in the receptacles. Currently they are investigating ways to receive digital donations, but cash is preferred for donations.
Niebergall expressed gratitude to everyone who has already helped to make the display possible, through their generosity on both a personal or business level, such as discounts offered, donations given or free services for the team while they do the legwork of the display.
The display is set to officially open Dec. 2 and will run until New Year’s Day. It will be open for viewing each Tuesday through Sunday, from 5-9 p.m.
“It is a really important piece for the community to be a part of their Christmas season. It doesn’t cost anybody a penny,” said Niebergall. “We’re really excited to have everyone come this year, and to be part of their Holidays.”
