For those last-minute Christmas shoppers and for a festive time with family and friends of all ages, Night Before the Night Before returns Dec. 23 downtown Stettler.
“We have lots of fun activities for everyone and a lot more businesses participating this year,” said Andrea Hatch, president of Stettler Downtown Business Association which hosts the annual event.
“All the businesses will be getting into the Christmas spirit and some will come with last-minute sales and bargains.”
Free hay rides, train rides a Christmas movie and Christmas caroling and a visit from Santa Claus are again all part of the fun.
“We definitely welcome any groups to sing Christmas carols during the evening,” said Hatch.
As a special feature, big inflatable snowmen outside businesses will welcome people inside for Christmas cheer and refreshments.
Rides on Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions are scheduled for 10 a.m., 12 noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. with a fee for adults or donation to the food bank. Riders are urged to get their train ticket stamped at three participating business with a chance to win $500 in Heart of Alberta dollars or other prizes.
This year, the eligible tickets must be dropped in the big barrel by Q14 radio with the draw set for 9 p.m. that night.
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is the feature Christmas movie at Jewel Theatre with shows at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
People are invited bring a donation for the food bank as a gift.
Santa and live reindeer are scheduled from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. by Well’s Furniture.