We were fortunate enough to be invited to the town’s Christmas Tree lighting and we’re thrilled to learn that their “tree” was actually a collection of stacked up prawn traps, garland, and nautical-themed décor. What a perfectly splendid way to represent the community and the industries that supports it.

The Christmas tree had extra special elements too… including custom floats that were decorated by the Boys and Girls Club. Local high school students created beautiful foam starfish, and the tree top angel can be seen proudly holding a star… a starfish!

The community is clearly proud of the ocean that surrounds them on three sides and I thought it was a very creative way to celebrate it.

My favorite part about the whole event though took place after the official celebrations were over. Community members were encouraged to walk along the streets and check out the window displays. Everyone was encouraged to vote for their favourites but what we saw happening was that people would go into stores and hang out. Shop owners served drinks and appetizers and kids and families visited, hung out, and celebrated the kick off of the season. To see a community come together in such a creative and meaningful way was really something special to be a part of.  

With every window bursting with seasonal displays, the trees down the street lit up with lights and people buzzing in and out of stores, the downtown celebrations were so much more than a Christmas tree lighting!