The holiday season is the time of year where we catch up with friends, spend time with family, meet the neighbors for the annual neighborhood potluck, and take the kids into the town square for the tree lighting. In essence, the holidays are about community and about cultivating connections. They’re about coming together, uniting and celebrating. This holiday season – and in the New Year ahead – make every interaction count. Here are some fantastic ways to embrace your Collingwood community:
Support the Community
While many community events this time of year are holiday and Christmas themed, participating in any events organized by the community supports community mentality and of course, encourages community economic growth. Head to the Collingwood Winter Farmer’s Market, where you can support local farmers and local small business owners. Happening every Saturday, it’s a great way to get out in the community, plus get some fresh food for the week ahead. You can also take part in the local art scene. The Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts Annual Winter Gift Show and Sale is on until December 31st at the Arts Centre, and the Broadway Tenors are visiting Casino Rama on December 2nd.
Involve the Kids
The holiday season has an array of special activities and events that happen only once a year, and this is especially exciting when you’re a kid and have been waiting for it all year long. There is something special and heart-warming about being out in the community, surrounded by snow and seeing storefronts all aglow with their Christmas displays. It is the perfect setting to share with your family. Head out to the streets for several Holiday Gift Market and craft fairs around town, or take in a performance of The Nutcracker. You can visit Santa and his reindeer, or enjoy the Festival of Lessons and Carols. All of these are kid-friendly events so they are a great chance to get the whole family out into the community as well as meet other families who live within the Collingwood bounds.
Relish in the Rich Culture
Whether you are learning about the history of the town, or attending culturally supportive events, holding onto culture and history is an important part of building a strong community. You can think of it as building a foundation: when you understand the culture and seek to preserve it, this acts as the building blocks for a community everyone wants to support and maintain. Support cultural awareness by attending events at the Simcoe County Museum, such as Christmas Past and Present or at the Meaford Hall Arts and Cultural Centre. The cultural centre regularly has plays and concerts on, so be sure to check the schedule and get your tickets!
Despite the busyness of the upcoming weeks, put in an extra effort to show your support and get involved in the Collingwood community. You’ll have fun, meet new people, and in the process, contribute to helping support this charming place we all love and call home.