By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
The much loved, highly anticipated Oliver Light Up is set to sparkle even brighter this year with familiar favourites returning, joined by new events to make it an even bigger celebration on Nov. 29-30.
“This cherished community event is brimming with holiday cheer, family-friendly activities, and unforgettable festive moments,” say organizers Town of Oliver, Chamber of Commerce, Oliver and District Recreation, Oliver Tourism Association and the Oliver Light Up Committee.
Oliver Light Up 2023.
Don Urquhart photo
The fun kicks off at 4 p.m. this Friday with Main St. taking centre stage as Hwy. 97 closes to vehicle traffic turning downtown into a pedestrian zone. Next up will be the VIP arrival of Santa Claus, the OES Choir performing and the official light-up ceremony.
The light tunnel and community bonfire will once again be featured at Lions Park and this year the Oliver Visitor Centre will play a larger role this year with its usual vendor market, silent auction and hot chocolate by donation, but this year will feature an expanded food and beverage garden with more than 10 vendors. And to cap it all off a fireworks display will take place at 8 p.m.
Donations to support the Oliver Food Bank and the Knights of Columbus Christmas Hamper Campaign will help spread holiday joy to those in need and can be dropped off at the Oliver Visitor Centre starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 29.
The family fun continues on Saturday, Nov. 30 with Breakfast with Santa, Library story time and a free Christmas movie screening at the Oliver Theatre of Small Foot.
The Oliver Visitor Centre during the Oliver Light Up 2023.
Don Urquhart photo
Kick-off at 4 p.m.
Re-Discover Downtown Oliver: Stroll through downtown in a safe and inviting pedestrian zone and enjoy holiday specials, visit local businesses, and soak up the festive spirit.
- Unique Wreath Competition: Head over to YWAM Global Gateway to see creative wreath displays and cast your vote for your favourite.
- Street Food & Vendors: Wander Main St. and delight in market vendors, food trucks, and street food offerings to satisfy every craving.
Light-up ceremony
- 6:00 p.m. Welcome Santa as he arrives downtown.
- 6:15 p.m. Enjoy a heartwarming performance by the OES Choir.
- 6:30 p.m. Join the official countdown and witness the grand light-up ceremony at Town Hall.
A giant bonfire keeps the crowd toasty during the Oliver Light Up 2023.
Don Urquhart photo
Lions Park:
- Light Tunnel – Walk through the enchanting light tunnel.
- Community Bonfire – Warm up at the bonfire supported by the Oliver Fire Department.
- Fireworks 8 p.m. – Cap the evening off with a spectacular fireworks show.
Oliver Visitor Centre:
- Artisan & Vendor Market: Shop for unique gifts from 20+ local artisans along with local businesses offering special one-day deals.
- Beverage Garden & Food Trucks: Unwind in the beverage garden and savour delicious bites from a variety of food trucks. More than 10 food and beverage vendors will be on hand including:
- Oliver Eats – Cheese Fondue
- Oliver Osoyoos Wine Association – Mulled Wine
- Firehall Brewery
- Laws of Attraction
- The Beast BBQ and Smoke Shack
- ZIZI Persian Food
- Christmas Hamper Silent Auction – Stop by the Oliver Visitor Centre to participate in a silent auction benefiting the Knights of Columbus Christmas Hamper Campaign.
- Visit Oliver exclusive merchandise – Sweatshirts, festival tees, festival glassware and more. Special one day pricing with a portion of sales being donated to Oliver Food Bank.
- Hot chocolate by donation – Enjoy a cozy cup of hot chocolate, with donations supporting a great cause.
- Festive music – Dance to holiday tunes spun by DJ Shakes.
- Warming Station – Stay cozy with a warming station provided by Sunbelt Rentals.
More holiday fun on Saturday, Nov. 30
- Breakfast with Santa ($7 per child at the Oliver Community Hall).
- Library story time with interactive stories, songs and crafts with the Library Elf.
- Free family movie screening of “Small Foot” at the Oliver Theatre at 2. p.m.
Fireworks in Lions Park at the Oliver Light Up 2023.
Don Urquhart photo
