In an attempt to buy local and support small businesses, we visited the Out of Hand market in Victoria on Saturday. It was a great collection of local artists and makers, and we picked up a few nice pieces for Christmas presents for some of the family - no spoilers as they may be reading this!
We then started putting up our outside decorations, before wandering up to Oak Bay Village for the big Christmas Lights switch on. It was a fun afternoon with live music, decoration making for the kids, street hockey (not very festive but a highlight for our boys) and sing along Christmas Carols. The switch on of the lights was Santa's cue to arrive, and he was driven down the avenue on an Oak Bay Fire Truck, along with Mrs Claus and one of his elves. The truck happened to stop right in front of us, so both of the boys got to say 'Hi'.
We then retired to our local pub, The Penny Farthing, to warm up. Sarah had cleverly thought ahead and booked a table, as it was exceptionally busy. Santa and Mrs Claus followed us into the pub, took their chance for a photo opportunity with Struan and Innes, spoke to some more children, and then sat at the next table for a well deserved break!
