JARVIS – These days, Christmas in the town of Jarvis feels more like a sold-out rock concert than a holiday on the calendar.
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That’s thanks to a simple idea that began during the COVID-19 pandemic: light up the town.
“Excitement is through the roof because this year we’re calling it the Jarvis Light Up – ‘Ultimate Edition’,” said Ernie Bigelow, one of the creators of the festival, which encourages residents and businesses in Jarvis and nearby Townsend to decorate their homes and properties with as many unique and elaborate holiday decorations as possible.
Now in its fourth year, Jarvis Light Up has become a must-attend event for residents near and far.
“We want our community to stay tight-knit,” said Bigelow, who teamed with fellow business owners Lisa and Howie Nigh to create the light up. “We’re hoping this brings us together as a community and we can have a beautiful celebration together – that’s what it’s about.”
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Driving through town, it’s easy to see how widespread the celebration has become. Hundreds of large colorful displays – both purchased and homemade – don lawns welcoming visitors to town.
Each year, the best of the best are awarded prizes. This year’s bonanza totals $40,000.
“We knew there was a possibility for growth (in 2020) but it’s unbelievable to me how this community takes their time, their money and dedicates it to the decorations on their houses,” said Bigelow. “I am so proud of our community because without them decorating, there’s no event. They take it very seriously and they make it happen.”
This year’s festival runs until Jan. 1, but peaks on Dec. 14 with the ultimate fireworks and carnival display. That day, residents can enjoy hot chocolate, hot dogs, fireworks, live music and entertainment, a carnival-style midway and even an actor playing the Grinch Who Stole Christmas. It all comes courtesy of local businesses, with more than 100 listed as sponsors.
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Last year’s celebration brought an estimated 4,500 to Jarvis Lions Park, well north of three times the town’s population.
“The best part is, people don’t have to bring their wallets, everything is free – everything,” Bigelow pointed out.
This year, organizers have secured free trolley rides to take visitors around both communities. In typical Light Up fashion, they’ve gone the extra mile.
“It’s not just a ride, it’s an experience – you’ll have two elves on board telling stories – some of them might not be true,” Bigelow laughed. “Either way, it’s an interactive experience.”
For more details visit jarvislightup.ca.
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