Light Up Talbot, Breathing Life Into the Downtown Core by Peri Hayes Upcoming is the fourth edition of Light Up Talbot, facilitated by the Downtown Development Board (DDB). The dedicated Sarah Lynch is the Downtown Development and Engagement Officer supporting the DDB, as she collaborates with community partners, volunteers and beyond for these cherished community celebrations. As Sarah expresses, “It has been wonderful to see the event grow and become something that people look forward to each year. We’re excited to continue building on that momentum and to create an experience that brings people together, while also shining a spotlight on our downtown businesses.” Light Up Talbot will once again offer plentiful activities for the entire family. Arriving at City Hall for a special visit is Santa Claus, followed by the ceremonial tree lighting at 6:00 pm. Sarah voices, “Throughout the evening, visitors can enjoy flash mobs, choirs and other entertainment, along with warming stations located throughout the downtown on Talbot Street (from Ross to East Street). There will also be food, horse-drawn carriage rides, and opportunities to explore our downtown merchants -- who are always excited to welcome visitors during the celebration.” Grayden Laing, Board Chair of the DDB, spreads festive cheer: “This evening is one of my favourite nights of the year -- when St. Thomas comes alive with the glow of the holiday season, and our community gathers to celebrate. Our downtown merchants, restaurants and service providers have been working hard to make this night memorable. I hope everyone takes their time to explore the festive window displays, pop into a shop they haven’t visited before, and discover the unique gifts and flavours they’ll only find here in St. Thomas.”
While recommending this uplifting event to local residents and travellers alike, Sarah voices, “We love to think of Light Up Talbot as the official kick-off to the holiday season in St. Thomas. There is something really special about bringing families, friends, businesses and the broader community together to celebrate, enjoy the lights and experience the excitement of the season. The timing makes it even more special; with Light Up Talbot taking place on Friday evening and the Horton Farmers’ Christmas Market happening the very next day, this creates a festive, almost ‘Hallmark movie’ kind of weekend in St. Thomas.” Light Up Talbot involves road closure along Talbot, ranging from Horton to East Street. Sarah warmly assures, “This allows us to create a welcoming, walkable event area where visitors can safely enjoy the entertainment, activities and downtown businesses throughout the evening.” Visit the lightuptalbot.ca website, and explore the St. Thomas Downtown Development Board Facebook profile for further information regarding this esteemed event -- transpiring on November 13th and beginning at 5:00 pm. As Grayden enthusiastically concludes, “When our community shops local, they keep our downtown vibrant for years to come. Thanks to everyone that is involved in pulling it off, and happy holidays!”
Neil R. Darrach: Built to Last
Discover the work of architect Neil R. Darrach , whose designs helped shape St. Thomas and Elgin County.
Elgin County Heritage Centre 460 Sunset Drive St. Thomas Exhibit on Display at the:
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www.elgincounty.ca/museum
Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 21
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