Photo: Contributed

Penticton's plans for a drive-by event to replace the cancelled Santa Claus Parade has also been cancelled in light of rising COVID-19 cases in the region. 

Hoodoo Adventures and the City of Penticton had planned a Candy Cane Lane on Dec. 13 in the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre parking lot, with kiosks decorated by local businesses. 

But they have made the decision that is no longer a safe option. 

"While we had high hopes that we could provide a safe alternative to the Santa Claus Parade and create a festive celebration for our community, we believe it is more important that we respect provincial health guidelines and protect the health and safety of our community,” said Carly Lewis, economic development manager for the City of Penticton.

“We also want to give the businesses and exhibitors who were committed to this event the time to plan alternate celebrations if they wish.”

Hoodoo Adventures remains optimistic that they can still do something special for the community this year. 

"We are disappointed that we can’t organize Candy Cane Lane, but are determined to continue to focus on what we can do, not what we can’t, so we're working hard on a new festive plan for the community,” said Lyndie Hill, co-owner of Hoodoo Adventures.

“We are planning something that is available to everyone, cannot be cancelled, postponed or restricted, we've all had enough of that, and we are confident this new plan won't spread anything but Holiday Spirit."

That "something" is a Holiday Spirit Map, which will be posted here on Dec. 10. Families and households will be able to drive or walk through the city to take in all the lights and sights by local businesses who want to share the festive season with the community. 

Businesses who want to get involved by decorating their storefront or window display can reach out to Hoodoo Adventures to find out how to get on the map.

The event is free, and if you snap a photo and share it with #holidayspiritmap and tag Hoodoo Adventures, you will be automatically entered to win a holiday grand prize.

"“It has been a hard year for everyone and the last thing we want is more disappointment, so as has been our mandate at Hoodoos all year, we will focus on what we can do, not what we can’t, and ask other businesses to join us in this new festive celebration," Hill said.

The City of Penticton and Hoodoo Adventures would like to thank the partners who had already committed to supporting the event, including Spectra Venue Management, the Downtown Penticton Association, local businesses planning floats and exhibits, and of course Santa and Mrs. Claus.