Supportive housing initiatives in Guelph got a big boost of cash from the city’s first foray into a nighttime holiday festival.
The first-ever Spirit of the Season Festival Guelph, a two-day festival held in Downtown Guelph, raised $29,000 for the Home for Good campaign.
The money was raised through sponsorships, as well as donations collected at the annual tree lighting event at Guelph City Hall.
Throughout the event, St. George’s Square was illuminated with glowing huts, featuring 18 local vendors. It was highlighted by a circus performance and a Santa sighting in a giant snow globe.
The tree lighting capped off another highlight of the event, the city’s first nighttime Santa Claus Parade, where officials said over 10,000 people came out to watch.
The event was put on by the Downtown Guelph Business Association and The Guelph Community Foundation.