Santa visits Meadow Lake via horse-drawn wagon. (Carrie Arlett Photo)

By Julia Lovett-Squires

Horsin' Around

Cowboy Christmas trotting into Meadow Lake Dec. 6

Dec 4, 2024 | 4:49 PM

Mark your calendars, Santa’s trading in Rudolph in favour of a wagon ride.

Once again, equestrians will be spreading Christmas cheer and happy trails in Meadow Lake.

“Last year the (Northwest Community Lodge) got ahold of us – an activity coordinator – and asked if somehow could have something,” said Co-organizer May Gorst of the Cowboy Christmas Parade.

The horsewoman explained to CJNS Announcer Matt Ryan that the parade, which takes place this Friday at 6 p.m., grew out of a special need facing the community. Due to the lodge’s location, residents don’t get to see the main parade route.

Since the equine festivity was such a success – last year saw about 40 riders on horseback take to the procession in all their colourful glory – this year will include much of the same splendor.

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“All together, there was over – I think I counted at least 130 people in general that took part,” she said referring to all the riders, drivers and participants sitting in the wagons.

Gorst said that when the lodge had reached out to her and her niece, they took it upon themselves and “got ‘er done.”

The route this year will be just like before. They will start just north of the lodge, go around the building, then work their way along the west side service road and out to Eagle Creek. From there, they will turn and make their way back north.

“I had put feelers out to more horse people and so, hopefully we get more people on horseback or wagon coming out,” she said.

At the moment, the parade will feature roughly 20 riders and spectators are able to watch the fun from the parking lots of local businesses and ditches. Of the event, Gorst said she is looking forward to the spectacle and the nice weather.

“We have little cowgirls, little cowboys and having them out to enjoy being involved,” she said.

“Last year, people had their horses lit up and the wagons and some of them even had Christmas music playing.”

As for herself, the horsewoman won’t be riding but rather driving a wagon, lit up with solar lights and featuring a team of miniature horses.

“I will have Santa with me.”

—

With files from Matt Ryan

julia.lovettsquires@pattisonmedia.com

On BlueSky: juleslovett@bsky.social