Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN – The Annual Lighting of the Lights took place on November 21 at Lions Market Street Park, drawing a strong community turnout for the official start of the holiday season. The ceremony was led by Mayor Cathy Burghardt-Jesson, who delivered brief remarks before initiating the countdown to the lighting.
The crowd gathered outdoors shortly before 6 p.m. for the ceremony. After acknowledging the volunteers and organizers, Mayor Burghardt-Jesson led the traditional countdown, and the Christmas lights throughout the park were activated.
The Lucan District Lions Club and the local Scouts jointly supported the event, with the Scouts responsible for preparing and serving food inside the Scout Hall. According to Alex Westman, head Cub leader, demand remained steady throughout the evening. “We served about 150 hot dogs and roughly 250 cups of hot chocolate,” he said. “Some visitors came in for food, others simply came inside to warm up. It was a consistent flow.”
Westman emphasized the long-standing collaboration between the Scouts and the Lions Club. “The Lions supplied all the food, and we handled cooking and serving,” he explained. “They do significant work in this community. Their contributions to the park include the playground equipment, the walking path, and recent upgrades at the ball diamond.”
The event also highlighted the depth of the local scouting program. Westman reported 33 youth currently enrolled: 16 Beaver Scouts, 6 Cub Scouts and 11 Scouts, with additional members participating from nearby communities. “We are always looking for more youth and volunteers,” he noted. “Our program remains active, and participation continues to grow.”
In addition to the Lighting of the Lights, the Scouts are preparing for several upcoming community activities. In early December, they will support the Santa Claus Parade. Their next major events will take place in the spring, beginning with the annual electronics-waste collection, followed by the spaghetti supper fundraiser. “Last year we served approximately 450 to 500 meals at the supper,” Westman said. “Attendance increases each year.”
For the Lions Club, the Lighting of the Lights remains one of several community-focused initiatives. Their ongoing investments in local recreation infrastructure continue to shape Lions Market Street Park as a central gathering place for municipal events.
The 2025 lighting ceremony proceeded without interruption, and organizers reported a positive response from attendees. The event marks the beginning of the municipality’s seasonal programming leading into December.
