Every year we plan a series of holiday events to make the season just that little bit extra special, creating new memories and bringing back the fondest recollections of seasons gone by.
Holiday Light-Up Event in Victoria Square
Join us for some wonderful festive cheer as we gather to enjoy music and good company in the square. We’ll serve up free hot chocolate and count down to the illumination of thousands of lights and decorations effectively flipping the switch on the holiday season, which is a great time to head into First Baptist for a carol sing. It’s an annual Amherst tradition.
Holiday Light-Up Details
- Friday, November 22, 2024
- 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. in Victoria Square - downtown Amherst
- Bring your reusable mug for a free hot chocolate
- Sing-Along to follow in First Baptist Church, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Themed Holiday Parade
Many Amherst groups and businesses make it their mission to create fantastic parade floats that embody the year’s theme – you won’t be disappointed. Gather along our sidewalks to marvel at the creativity and soak in the holiday spirit.
2024 Parade Details
Theme: Classic Christmas Movies
NEW PARADE DATE: Sunday, November 24, 2024
Start Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Gather in Town Square Mall parking lot, 147 South Albion Street
Route: Turn left onto Albion Street. Turn left onto Church Street, then turn right onto Victoria Street. Turn when directed - in the TD or Dayle's parking lot.
Registration: No fee!
Prizes:
Prizes will be awarded by a select panel of judges. Awards will be handed out in the week following the parade.
Prize Categories:
- Best Overall Theme (1st, 2nd, & 3rd)
- Best Youth Involvement
- Best Charity or Non-Profit
- Holiday Spirit Award
Parade Guidelines and Application
The deadline for applications is November 15, 2024. pdf Access all parade guidelines and the 2024 application form here (4.93 MB) .
Sending Off the Tree for Boston
We love holiday traditions, and one of the best is taking time to send off the annual tree for Boston as it leaves Nova Scotia. After the Great Halifax Explosion, Boston rapidly send aid to the devastated port city. For many years – as a token of thanks – Nova Scotia has sent a Christmas tree to Boston, which visits communities along its route, with Amherst being the final stop before leaving the province. Join us to wish the tree well before taking its place on the Boston Common.
Tree For Boston Send-Off Details
- Sunday, November 24, 2024
- 11 a.m.
- Victoria Square - downtown Amherst
