There will be all kinds of activities in Hawkesbury during the holiday season. Choices abound for young and old, including a food drive, a magical Santa Claus Parade, a fun drawing contest as well as swimming and skating.

First, in order to lend a hand to the citizens of our region as well as the Hawkesbury Central Food Bank, the Town of Hawkesbury is launching its third annual Donation for a Swim campaign. From December 9^th to 21^st, the Recreation Department will offer free entry to public swims at the Robert Hartley Sports Complex in exchange of a donation of 3 non-perishable and unexpired food items benefiting the Hawkesbury Central Food Bank Christmas Basket Campaign. Also, Every Monday and Wednesday, from December 8 to 21, citizens are more than welcome to join us for an aquafitness class at the SportsComplex for only $10. All funds raised during these classes will be donated to the Hawkesbury Central Food Bank.

Get ready for the annual Christmas Parade that will take over the streets of Hawkesbury on December 7^th. Starting from Higginson Street, and continuing on James and Main Streets, the parade will end at the corner of Hamilton so make sure you say hi to Santa and to the participating Hawkesbury organizations. Thanks to the more than 30 floats and marching bands, the streets will be animated with Christmas characters and animations. And who can forget the elves, who will be collecting your letters to Santa! There will be a temporary road closure for Higginson, James, Main and Hamilton Streets, so please ensure your vehicle is not parked on these streets between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. We appreciate your cooperation.

Once again this year, a Pool Party with slide at the Robert Hartley Sports Complex, which has a value of $135 could be won by a lucky child! All they have to do is colour the drawing that can be obtained at the Sports Complex Information Desk or by printing it from our Facebook page and drop it off at the Sports Complex before the December 17^th drawing date.

Finally, the Sports Complex holiday hours will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from December 22^nd to January 5^th. Stop by to swim, skate or play hockey with friends and family. Consult our Facebook page and Website for the detailed holiday schedule, and note that the Sports Complex will be closed from December 24 to 26 and from December 31 to January 2.