As the holiday season approaches in beautiful Bradford, you understandably may be making various plans to spend the days and evenings with family and friends.

While some of your magical holiday moments may be spent in the serenity of your own custom built home, you can also make memories together by partaking in numerous community events. You do not need to make the drive to nearby Toronto to enjoy holiday activities. In fact, many events are planned in or near Bradford. Alair Homes has assembled this list of seasonal events for you to consider:

Screening of “Song of God”

Make the short drive to the Fairview Library in North York to view a memorable screening of “Song of God.” This event takes place at 7:45 p.m. on December 5. The film from Aref Mohamamdi explores the spirituality of Yarsan. This is a powerful documentary that speaks to spiritual beauty through the sounds of a lute. Seating is limited, so purchase tickets in advance.

H.O.P.E Fundraising Dinner 2018

The holiday season is a time to give back to the community and to support those in need. The H.O.P.E. Fundraising Dinner is now in its sixth year, and it supports Help for Hope. Your admission ticket includes a screening of a short film that showcases the organization’s accomplishments and a buffet dinner. It also includes an auction, calligraphy, original artwork and a speech from keynote speaker Shaykh Usama Abdulghani. This event is held a short drive from Bradford at Terrace Banquet Centre in Vaugh. It is scheduled for December 9 at 5 p.m.

Yule Love: Featuring the Toronto Mass Choir

Another event that is planned close to Bradford is Yule Love at the Harvest Bible Chapel in nearby Barrie. This event starts at 8 p.m., and it will brighten the season and lift your spirits as the Toronto Mass Choir sings treasured holiday classics. This group has been performing for more than three decades, and it is known for blending gospel, Latin, jazz and Caribbean music in its arrangements. Advance ticket purchase is recommended, and proceeds benefit the Salvation Army Bayside Mission.

Christmas Eve at Connexus Church

You can also head to nearby Barrie on Christmas Eve for a magical religious service at Connexus Church. This is a service that stands apart from other Christmas Eve church services that you may have attended by telling the story of Christmas in an uplifting, heartfelt way. The service is appropriate for those who are at least 4 years old. Younger children may reserve space for on-site childcare. A special gift is provided to attendees who are between 4 and 10 years old. Purchase tickets online in advance.

These are only a few of the magical ways that you can share the holidays with your family in Bradford and throughout southern Ontario.