Holiday spirit lights up Lethbridge City Hall
City of Lethbridge staff volunteer their time each year to bring the festive feel to city hall by decorating the foyer for the Tree Lighting Ceremony.
The 19th annual ceremony took place Monday, and in conjunction with the ceremony, donation bins have been set up for gifts and non-perishable food items for the Christmas Hope Campaign.
Lethbridge Mayor Chris Spearman said the community does better when it’s working together for a great cause.
“I think it’s important to show leadership, and invite citizens to participate and remind them that Christmas is about helping and giving to others,” said Spearman.
He added that Christmas is seen as one of the most stressful times of the year for families and anything they can do to help families and young kids have a wonderful Christmas season will go a long way if everyone can all give a little and do their part.
The Interfaith Food Bank, Lethbridge Food Bank, Angel Tree Campaign, The Salvation Army, and My Care Shop of Wonders will be participating in the Christmas Hope Campaign.
Lori Harasem, City of Lethbridge recreation and culture development manager, said it’s a chance to raise awareness of the Christmas Hope Campaign when people visit the foyer.
“We know that not everybody can give the same amount because giving looks different for everyone, and for some people it may be time,” said Harasem. “I know for myself from volunteering with Angel Tree Campaign last year, that volunteers are just as essential as the gifts, and the financial donations are.”
Harasem said there are ways for everyone to participate, and for people who have it in their hearts to financially give, she would encourage them to stop by city hall to find out more about the campaign or to drop off gifts.
The campaign will continue until mid December and donations of unwrapped toys and gifts for children and youth aged 17 and younger will also be collected for Christmas Hope.
Christmas choirs will be singing in the foyer at city hall in the noon hour from Dec. 7-21, and people are encouraged to see the foyer all decorated, and enjoy the free musical performances.
For more information on the Sounds of the Season holiday concert series, visit
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