An extraordinary Christmas display along Cornett Drive in Red Deer's Clearview neighbourhood. (rdnewsNOW / Sheldon Spackman)

By Sheldon Spackman

Annual Tradition

Details forthcoming for this year’s Red Deer Christmas Light Tour

Nov 30, 2020 | 2:57 PM

A long time holiday tradition in Red Deer is back for another year, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since 1975, Red Deer’s Christmas Light Tour has been around in one form or another, and has brought joy and festive spirit for all those who take the time to see it.

AJ Elliott, along with his father Jim, who started the tour decades ago, are once again working on a number of routes for Red Deerians to consider if they wish to see some of the city’s most impressive outdoor Christmas displays.

AJ says what initially began as hour-long bus tours has evolved into personal vehicle tours where residents can pick and choose where they go and for how long.

“With our routes, we’re hoping that we can provide the most versatile opportunities for people to go and see the city,” he explains. “It’s a work in progress, as some people haven’t really started decorating yet. So we’re still scouring the city for decorations.”

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Elliott admits that some neighbourhoods have traditionally seen strong highlights on the tour, including Bower, Oriole Park, Clearview Meadows, Rosedale, and Mountview, among others.

He says if he and his father can distribute it properly, there should be four different routes for people to choose from again this year.

“Especially this year, people are looking for some kind of hope and some kind of enjoyment after everything that’s happened,” suggests Elliott. “The beauty of the lights can evoke feelings of hope and enjoyment for the community and the public – something to inspire them. I hope it brings people together so they can still see the beauty of the outside world.”

For Red Deerians interested in having their home listed as part of the tour, they can call 403-342-7878 or contact Jim Elliott on Facebook.

Elliott hopes to have the routes finalized for this year’s Red Deer Christmas Light Tour sometime over the next couple of weeks.

by Sheldon Spackman

Details forthcoming for this year’s Red Deer Christmas Light Tour

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