Old Fashioned Christmas Gets Bigger and Better

The 2007 edition of Old Fashioned Christmas at Sherbrooke Village in Sherbrooke has proven to be the most successful ever. This year's event eclipsed last year's record numbers of 6,800 people by more than 1,000 people as attendance increased by more than 23 per cent.

"Opening night was our best ever and more than 4,500 people participated in the celebrations," said George Brothers, acting director at Sherbrooke Village. "We moved our opening ceremonies to the performance area, which made it easier to cope with the increased numbers and also allowed visitors to see the entire village light show. The visitor experience was much improved by using the venue as well, as entertainment and fireworks were visible to the entire audience."

Numbers for craft workshops, children's activities and village house tours were up significantly, as was attendance at a number of the food-related events.

"The business community benefitted greatly from the event this year, as did community groups such as the Historic Sherbrooke Village Development Society and the St. Mary's Lions Club," said Brenda Alexander, chair of the Old Fashioned Christmas Committee. "The support from both government and the community is proof positive that Old Fashioned Christmas is playing a significant role in the development of off-season tourism."

Volunteers and staff ensured that the event held up to the high standards that were set in the past.

The support from both government and the community is proof positive that Old Fashioned Christmas is playing a significant role in the development of off-season tourism.

Next year will mark the 13th anniversary of Old Fashioned Christmas and opening night activities are tentatively scheduled for Friday, Nov. 28, 2008.