Each year, the annual holiday light display at Gibsons Marina grows and glows, creating a magical family experience. On Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 5 p.m., Marina owner Klaus Fuerniss throws the switch to illuminate the 40,000+ bulbs that will reflect a “Sea of Light” in Gibsons.
Weather permitting, a wharfside BBQ will offer hot snacks and beverages for sale from 4 to 6 p.m. on the 29th, and from noon to 7 p.m. each Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Dec.18. The display continues to Jan. 6.
The Sea of Light is an annual fundraiser for the Salvation Army Sunshine Coast Ministry’s annual Food and Toy Drive. From the event’s launch on Nov. 29 through to Dec. 22, Marina visitors are invited to enjoy the display and drop off a donation of cash, non-perishable food items or a new, unwrapped toy at the marina office to help cheer a family in need.
Proceeds from the sponsorship of the decorated trees lining the wharf plus donations collected in the “kettle” set up at the marina will all go to the Salvation Army’s Food and Toy Drive. “Every year, we want to help shed a light on the fact that many families in our community are in dire need. So we hope as people come to enjoy our Sea of Light, they will also generously help others with a donation.”
Ministry director Darrell Pilgrim noted that the Salvation Army Food Bank has witnessed a 15 per cent increase in need over the past two months, “So we are very happy that the Sea of Light is again helping us this year. It’s a great event and a great partnership.” He added a note of appreciation for the Marina staff, and said “we appreciate the community that comes together to as we work together to make it the best it can be.”
