Lighting up downtown Truro for Christmas makes for a magical night

TRURO - "It's magical daddy!"
That exclamation was uttered by a youngster the moment a large Christmas tree was lit in downtown Truro Friday night, officially marking the Christmas season.
The 31st annual Truro tree lighting and carol sing in the Civic Square drew several thousand people.
Before the 25-foot Christmas tree was lit, people of all ages sang along to about a dozen Christmas songs played by the Truro Concert Band and the Novatones.
Adults danced with their children snuggled in their arms and youngsters clapped excitedly after each song, hoping another would
follow.
The arrival of a parade of fire trucks from area brigades as well as police and RCMP cars sparked another round of cheers.
When the emcee asked if people would rather rain or snow for the event, an overwhelming amount of shouts insisted snow was not welcome.
Ironically, within a few minutes, a light rain began to fall.
"It doesn't matter if it doesn't snow ... I love this because it really makes it feel like Christmas with all the lights and songs," said 10-year-old Jacob Scott of Salmon River.
"I like all the colours."
Ten-year-old Dimitri Julian of Bible Hill said he attends the event every year.
"It's really fun. I love listening to the music and drinking egg nog and the fireworks and being with family and friends."
Adults enjoyed the night as well. Some said it was a chance to forget about their problems, while others said it was an opportunity to partake in the simple things of the season.
"I like to see the children's faces light up," said Priscilla Macleod of Truro. "It's such a sense of wonderment."
The event, sponsored by the Downtown Truro Partnership, also offered egg nog and candy canes. Keeping with the Christmas mood, the annual Truro Christmas Parade will take place tonight beginning at 6 p.m.

mchiasson@trurodaily.com