Cochranites like their free hot dogs and complimentary chocolate, served with a side of Christmas cheer. All 12,000 frankfurters to be precise – served up at 17 fire pot locations along Main Street by sponsoring businesses fighting for the most festive booths or mouth-watering dog toppings. But in order to pull it all off, the Light Up committee is not looking to skim on one particular topping: volunteers. The committee is on the hunt for some 40 volunteers to help move the line ups along, assist with set up and take down and man the three kids tents and help general flow for the event that sees between 12,000 and 15,000 pack into Historic Downtown. "It's a kick-off to the Activettes Share Your Christmas Campaign," said Light Up chair Stephanie Shelstad, adding that representatives from the local food bank will walk up and down the streets with well-lit grocery carts collecting cans. This year, the event has had businesses adopt-a-barricade in order to cut down on volunteer demand. So far, only a handful of volunteers have stepped up to the plate, with around 40 more needed. There will be no fireworks this year due to poor visibility, as well as cost. Brian Widahl of Widahl Woodcraft will be on site crafting a chainsaw carving that will make its new home at Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre. Hay rides, stilt walkers and Stoney Nakoda dancers will return this year with a "few surprises in store," as hinted by Shelstad. The committee is also looking for donations for the Silent Auction and Random Acts of Kindness bags. This year, the hope is to fill 50 bags to give out the night of Light Up and all funds raised will go to Big Hill Haven. Anyone wishing to donate can email [email protected]. Thank you for all your support. Donations need to be in by Nov. 12. Parade of Lights NOTE: The article that ran in print this week listed the date of the parade as Dec. 9 incorrectly. The parade will run on Dec. 8, beginning at 6 p.m. with festivities beginning an hour before. The Eagle apologizes for the mistake and any confusion. Only three weeks after the 34th annual Cochrane tradition, Light Up will be holding its first Christmas Parade of Lights. The traditional parade is picking up where the Santa Claus Parade ended – as the committee to run that event packed it in last year after only three years. "We have a really enthusiastic board," said Shelstad. "It's Christmas and we didn't want to see it die so we're bringing it back and we're bringing it back downtown." Shelstad said anyone looking to enter a float in the Parade of Lights or volunteer for Light Up should contact [email protected]. The Parade of Lights will be held Dec. 8 at 6 p.m. downtown with entertainment starting at 5 p.m.
