Take some time away from holiday planning and stressful schedules to relax and have some fun. Grey and Bruce county communities offer many different activities and events designed to appeal to people of all ages.

Festival of Northern Lights

Driving along viewing the hundreds of light displays is the perfect way to spend an evening. Every night from 5:00 to 11:00 P.M., more than 25 kilometres of lights line the street along the harbour, the river banks, the heart of the downtown area, and into Harrison Park. The festival continues through January 3. Visit Harrison Park on Saturdays from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. and see the lights while riding in a horse-drawn carriage. The park also offers free ice skating.

Memories of Christmas Past

Step back in time with storyteller Pauline Grondin for a look at how families celebrated Christmas centuries ago. Hear about the folk legends and what was considered traditional back in the day. Activities include making vintage seasonal crafts and enjoying special treats. The event is planned for December 12 from 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. Regular museum admission fees are $8 for adults, $6 dollars for seniors and students, and $4 for children.

Christmas Cookies and Cards

Children aged 6 to 10 are invited to the Bruce Museum on December 19 from 1:00 to 2:30 P.M. to bake and decorate cookies. They will also have the chance to create their own Christmas cards. Pre-admission and prepayment are required. General price is $8 per child. Museum members pay $5.

Visit the Historic Roxy Theatre

The theatre will be presenting a number of live seasonal performances that are suitable for the entire family. On December 12 at 2:00 P.M. the Toronto All-Star Big Band will be playing various holiday favorites with a swing twist. On December 13, at 2:00 P.M., the venue hosts a live dramatic reading of “A Christmas Carol.” On December 18 at 7:00 P.M. and again on December 19 at 2:00 and 7:00 P.M. families will delight in the humorous rendition of Cinderella. Tickets are available online and range from $20 to $30 for adults.

Ten Thousand Villages Festival Sale

Whether looking for a new holiday decoration or an unusual gift for someone who has everything, the festival just might have what you need. The shop features a large selection of handcrafted items made by people from around the world. Stop by on December 12 from 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. or on December 13 from noon to 3:00 P.M.

Tobermory Santa Claus Parade

Everyone loves a parade and on December 12, at 1:00 P.M. all are welcome to come watch the procession filled with marching bands, colorful floats, and Santa himself. As the community lies next to Bruce National Park, the area is also the ideal location for all types of winter sports.

New Year’s Eve Family Celebration

The Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre invites families to spend a fun-filled New Year’s Eve at the facility from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. Activities include family swimming, games in the gym, crafts, face painting and ice skating. There will also be a live band to entertain guests. At the stroke of eight, the big ball drops in celebration of the New Year. Admission is by freewill donation.