If you are looking for an event to bring back that old-time feeling of joy to the world and good will towards your fellow man then look no further.
The Central British Columbia Railway & Forest Industry Museum Society presents its annual Celebration of Lights Dec. 18 to 24 where people can see more than 20,000 lights, enjoy viewing the Christmas village with more than 119 buildings, indulge in hot chocolate, roast hot dogs and make s'mores at the bonfire, skate on the ice rink and ride on the Cottonwood Railway where the Beehive burner and tunnel are completely lit up.
"It's so beautiful here," said Ranjit Gill, executive director of the museum. "The display is just spectacular inside and out and Santa is here every night - except for Christmas Eve because he has to go back to the North Pole."
After 4 p.m. is an ideal time to come as it gets darker then and people can enjoy the lights to the fullest, said Gill. The museum is open each day for the Celebration of Lights from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
There are many local entertainers who will be at the celebration including the Cantata Singers on Dec. 18 from 4 to 5 p.m., Knox United Church choir Dec. 20 from 6 to 7 p.m., Prince George Cantata Singers Dec. 21 from 6 to 7 p.m., the Sweet Adelines Dec. 22 from 6 to 7 p.m. and storyteller extraordinaire Ingrid Wenzel from the Prince George Library will be on hand Dec. 23 from 6 to 7 p.m. to entertain the children.
"And of course we have the best of all -- Mr. and Mrs. Claus, the most fabulous people you will ever meet," said Kathy Carlson, event and volunteer co-ordinator at the museum.
Many people don't realize what an extensive gift shop the museum has and Carlson invites everyone to come browse locally-made gifts as well as everything on the train enthusiasts wish list.
The celebration of Lights kicks off Dec. 18 from 4 to 8 p.m. and visitors can make a donation of a non-perishable food item for the Prince George Salvation Army Food Bank.
Regular admission applies Dec. 19 to 24.
For more information visit www.pgrfm.bc.ca.
