Public Notices/Announcements - Belleville - Belleville Festival of Lights Nov 20 to Jan 4th
From a senseless car accident on Christmas Eve in 1958, has come a testament to family love and the true spirit of Christmas. Originally developed as a tribute to their son Billy, Don and Rita Foster poured their grief into building a Christmas Light Display using lawn mower and washing machine parts. The accident also claimed the life of Art "Sonny" Culloden and the Culloden family continue to donate generously to the refurbishment of this historic display. Over the years, the "Foster Family" display has grown, new pieces have been added including a Santa's workshop designed and created by students at Sir James Whitney School for the Deaf. For eleven years it was featured on Marsh Drive cared for by Bruce and Marjorie Nickle. As time evolved it moved to the Tom Gavey Alemite Park under the care of the Belleville Professional Firefighters Association. Since 2012 the City of Belleville accepted stewardship. The displays are skillfully restored and featured in the Jane Forrester Park at Meyers Pier on the waterfront. The lights will be on this year from November 20 until January 4th.
This year due to pandemic safety restrictions, the light and sound displays will be featured in 4 parks along the Waterfront including Victoria Park, Jane Forrester Park, South Foster Ave Park/ Memory Lane as well at Rotary Fitness Park along Keegan Parkway. Behind Quinte Health Care. Visitors are invited to enjoy a holiday walk or driving experience from Pinnacle St along Front St through the brightly lit downtown with merchant windows aglow with holiday items enroute to Victoria Park. The same great experience extended east to discourage large gatherings in one area. The trail will be open with focus on limiting physical social distancing.