Festive Fun at Downtown Tree Lighting

Swift Current's downtown Christmas Tree is all lit up and ready for another holiday season.

The tree was lit at an event at Market Square last night, which also featured hot chocolate, carolling, a bonfire and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

Mrs. Claus tagged along for the long trip from the North Pole, and even though it was much warmer the last time she was here, she doesn't mind that it's a little bit more cold and snowy this time around.

Full Interview with Mrs. Claus

"In Swift Current, it's never the same from year to year, except for all the people. It's so lovely to see everybody," she said. "That's why I keep coming with Santa to Swift Current, because of all my friends, and they're all such good huggers around here, and I love my hugs."

The Tree Lighting event, hosted by the Downtown Business Association, kicks off a busy month-long Christmas shopping season, and it will also be busy up at Santa's workshop as he gets ready for the big day.

We talked with some kids waiting in line to see Santa about some of their favourite parts of the holiday

"I can't speak for anybody else, but I'll be making candy canes and cookies, and keeping my eye on Santa to make sure he's working and not playing with the toys," Mrs. Claus added. "He likes to play with his own toys."

While waiting in line for jolly St. Nick, some of the many kids told us about their favourite things about the Christmas season, including opening presents and visiting with family, as well as some cool gift ideas like smartphones, computers and lightsabers.

For more pictures from the Tree Lighting, visit Swift Current Online's Facebook Page