STUDENT REPORT: Rekindle in Rossland
By Oceanne Verot
December in Rossland is the most cheerful and jolly time of the year with white snow-lined streets and people shopping with warm, welcoming smiles.
Rekindling is the action of reviving something or someone. In the season of giving, the verb rekindle takes on a whole new meaning.
Rossland’s Rekindle events kick off this Saturday, Dec. 3, with the tree lighting in Harry Lefevre Town Square, as well as a myriad of booths from various local businesses. For Rosslanders to enjoy the Rekindle event, there is a schedule of expected offerings as reported by Katy Fowler, event assistant.
“Being involved with the community and helping out is why I work alongside a team to put on the Rekindle event,” said Fowler. As the director of operations at Wild Smile Events, a wedding and event planning company, she is excited to use her professional skills to organize Rekindle again this year.
According to the Tourism Rossland website, the statement is clear: “Rekindle the Spirit of Christmas here in Rossland, light the tree, spread kindness and community mindedness. Shop local, eat local, and support local.” This sums up the event’s purpose and offers the population of Rossland a fun party to attend with the following schedule.
The Josie is setting up in the town square to offer treats and hot beverages starting at 10:00 a.m. and is donating prizes for a draw at their booth. Also, Seven Summits Centre for Learning will be on location to spread the message about Dressember and the student-led mission to raise funds for the Giving Tree. The Rossland Lions Club will be selling sausages and hot drinks from 11:00-5:00. This is also a great time to get together and browse all Rossland’s shops.
Santa will be waiting for the children at the library from 11:00 until 3:00. Get a picture with the old cheerful St. Nick, fill out a personal Christmas wishlist, and remember the moment with a photo.
The Rotary Club is partnering with Alpine Pharmacy and Ferraro Foods to promote a food drive. Drop off items at either of these two locations and help fill the shelves of the Food Bank.
Finding a perfect gift for families and friends is no problem because the winter market at Miners Hall will be in full swing from noon until 6:00 p.m. This artisan market provides a first-class showcase for small businesses of Rossland who will be in attendance to sell their wares. Crafts and gifts of all sorts will be available from a talented group of local artists. Take home a one-of-a-kind gift and support a local business endeavour.
Time for a fat bike this winter to work off the pounds? Revolution cycle is organizing a bike demo at their shop during store hours for lucky people to try out this exciting winter sport. Then around the corner, the Gold Rush bookstore is offering 10% off on books.
Next, leave town to drive a quick five minutes up the road to the nordic and alpine ski resorts. Black Jack Cross Country Ski Club offers a free skiing opportunity for the day, and Red Mountain Ski Resort is open for pass collection from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
On the way back, take a tour of the Rossland Museum to have hot chocolate, sweet treats, and participate in a Christmas activity for all ages starting at 2: p.m.
The crescendo of this day is the annual tree lighting that takes place in the town square at 4:00 p.m. Take advantage of this beautiful time with family. Watch the smiles and looks of amazement on the faces of young and old. Don’t have a Christmas tree? It’s all good, as the Red Mountain Racers are selling full Douglas Fur trees for $35.00 as a ski club fundraiser. Pick out the perfect tree in the lot beside the Mountain Nugget Chocolate Company.
At 6 p.m., head back to the Miners Hall and be part of a wreath-making seminar. Then move onto the Rossland Beer Company to meet the merry men.
Get out of the house this weekend, wear those winter boots, and restore happiness with family and friends in downtown Rossland during the Rekindle event. Stoke the holiday fire. Thank you to the City of Rossland and Nelson and District Credit Union for making this event possible.
