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Winter Wonderland was delightful in Unity despite frightful weather

Unity's Winter Wonderland festivities Dec. 16 were a big hit despite the frigid temperatures
Sherri Solomko
Sherri Solomko

UPDATED DEC. 17 8:15 A.M. -

UNITY - Oh the weather outside was frightful, but indeed, the event was delightful. Unity's Winter Wonderland persevered despite the frigid temperatures.

Even though some events had to be rerouted to indoor locations and the sleigh ride was not an option in the arctic temperatures, Winter Wonderland festivities still had plenty to offer Unity residents Dec. 16.

The Unity Miners braved the cold temperatures to put plenty of warm smiles on kids coming to take them on in a street hockey match. Compass Minerals staff outlasted many downtown, as they handed out complimentary sidewalk salt and take-home kids craft kids for more than three hours. 

Cookies, hot apple cider, craft making and much more was all part of the activities that took place from 5 to 8 p.m. downtown Unity. Activities were complemented by a number of special sales and promos in downtown businesses, with many remaining open for extended hours just for the occasion. Santa and Mrs. Claus graciously posed for many photos

A Christmas wish tree was set up at the end of Main Street, decorated by committee member, Hollie Robertson. Residents were invited to add their wishes and prayers to the tree for the holiday season.

The evening was capped off by a Winter Lights parade of more than two dozen entries that drove through the parade route, delighting all who came out to see their work.

Rita Desmarais of Unity tells the Press-Herald/SASKTODAY.ca, "Hats off to all businesses and groups that took the time and effort to put on another great parade in the freezing cold. It was fantastic."

The downtown window decorating contest and the Chamber of Commerce Grand in Your Hand draw was made downtown at 7 p.m. Unity BMO won the window decorating contest with trophy sponsored by Found Treasures of Unity. The committee was so impressed by parade entries they decided to award four winners instead of two but affirm that choosing was difficult, as so much effort was put into each entry. 

Hollie Robertson, committee member, says, "First place was awarded to Kayla Meredith's gingerbread house entry.  Second place was awarded to Unity Dental and that waving tooth was a big hit with parade watchers. Third place was awarded to James Alexander Trucking and the Unity Fire Department's efforts earned them fourth spot. All entries were winners in our opinion so it was certainly difficult to select a top four."

Winter Wonderland committee member, Nicole Headrick, says, "We are overwhelmed with the amazing turnout and so thankful to all the businesses that hosted events as well as putting so much effort into float entries. We also appreciate the live music performers that were moved inside the Co-op. The community spirit, events and parade were amazing."

The official kickoff to Christmas in Unity was a big hit by all who participated in what was offered. One resident said, "The Winter Wonderland committee provided a holly, jolly atmosphere for the community and, despite the cold, it was a great way to enjoy some festive fun in Unity."