The Lions Club Huon is preparing for its tenth annual Christmas parade and community celebration on Saturday, November 30, inviting families to join in an evening of holiday fun.
As a nonprofit committee, the Lions Club works each year to bring a free Christmas experience for children and families in the local community, complete with games, treats, and gifts from Santa.
Ten years ago, the event underwent a revitalisation, with the Lions Club taking on the responsibility around seven years ago.
The growing demands of organising have been a “continual learning experience” due to increasing regulations, yet the club remains committed to providing a festive experience for local kids.
Each year, 20 volunteers are needed as road marshals along the parade route to help protect the parade and its spectators.
“We urgently need help from anyone living along the route or any clubs with members who can assist, even just for a couple of hours,” said organiser Ann Brittain.
The evening promises free treats for children aged 10 and under, including ice cream, fairy floss, popcorn, and a small gift from Santa.
The parade area will host popular market stalls and entertainment, along with kid-friendly activities such as crafts and games organised by Harcourts, who also funded a local artist to paint Christmas icons on children’s faces and hands.
In addition to festive performances by Brad’s school bands and Rose’s homeschool choir, the Lions Club is holding a Christmas raffle.
Prizes include a wheelbarrow filled with family gifts, a Body Shop advent calendar, and a picture book of the Tarkine.
Raffle tickets are available for $2 or three for $5.
A new initiative this year, called “Lions Little Boxes,” reaches out to local residents who might find themselves alone during the holidays.
Ann explained the importance of this project, saying, “We can only imagine how awful it would feel if Christmas Day was without family or friends.”
Community members are encouraged to donate small items like hankies, soap, or socks to fill these boxes, with a designated drop-off point in the undercover area.
The Lions Club Huon invites everyone to participate in the festivities, kicking off at 4.30pm.
For more details or to volunteer as a road marshal, contact Ann Brittain at anndale5@bigpond.com or call 0404 090 630.
