The most wonderful time of the year in downtown Canby is just around the corner, with the return of the beloved annual tradition Light Up the Night, the community’s traditional kick-off to the holiday season.
The 21st annual Light Up the Night will start at 6 p.m. Friday, December 2, with the traditional holiday parade through downtown Canby, followed by the tree lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. at Wait Park and pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Wait Park gazebo.
Businesses and organizations may participate in the parade for free.
Participants will line up on Northwest 5th Avenue near Eccles and Knight elementary schools, then wind their way up Fir Street to 1st, circle back on Holly and 2nd Avenue, and finally hang a right on 3rd and head to Wait Park.
The roles of Christmas’ first couple will be played by “Canby’s Santa,” longtime local resident Ed Grautski and his wife, Judy.
The city is also seeking the community’s help in identifying the lucky person who will have the honor of flipping the switch to light the tree and other decorations at the park at 6:30 p.m. that Friday.
“Do you know someone ‘electric’ who helps make Canby a better place?” Canby Economic Development & Tourism Coordinator Tyler Nizer said in an email. “Maybe it’s someone you work with, a family member, or a great friend? The City of Canby wants to know: Who Lights Up Canby?”
To nominate someone who brings that special light to our community for the “Who Lights Up Canby” contest, fill out the city’s brief online form here. You will need to enter your name and phone number, the nominee’s name and phone number, and a description of how they light up Canby.
“The City of Canby is looking for nominations of people throughout the Canby community who bring something a little extra special to everyone in their life,” Nizer said, “not just during the holidays, but year-round!
The deadline for nominations will be 5 p.m. November 18. Instead of a community vote as in years past, the winner will be selected through a judging process that begins the following Monday, November 21.
Questions about Light Up the Night! or the Who Lights Up Canby? contest should be directed to Nizer at 503-266-0772 or nizert@canbyoregon.gov.