Aloving donkey named Papoo is the unofficial mascot of the Arundel Christmas Market that anchors the Holiday festivities in this picturesque village, throughout the month of December.

A magical showcase of community artisans

The greenhouse at Pascal Gauthier and Bettina Bolzer’s 16-acre farm on Crystal Falls Road in Arundel produces some of the best tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in the region. Instead of growing vegetables this month, on December 10-11 the greenhouse will be transformed to showcase the art and artistry produced in the region.

Gauthier and Bolzer draw on their extensive design work with the Cirque du Soleil and the film industry to make the market an experience, not just a destination.

An immigrant from the homeland of Mozart and Beethoven, Bolzer remarks, “I wanted to recreate the magic of the Vienna, Austria, Christmas markets I experienced as a child.”

And magic is just what they deliver. You will be serenaded by live music, and enticed by the delicious aroma of fresh baked goodies. You will find treasures, one-of-a-kind gifts, and holiday delicacies – as well as the spirit of Christmas.

Again this year, you can choose from delectable baked goods, holiday treats and fresh smoked nuts from P’tites Folies, made daily at its café on rue du Village.

When you have finished your shopping, an array of cosy tables will allow you to bask in the sights, sounds and scents of Christmas.

“The success of last year, with over 500 visitors to the event, underscores the popularity of our special Christmas recipe,” shares Gauthier.

The sounds of Christmas

A retired teacher and pillar of the Arundel arts community, Janet Thomas is devoted to “turning cars around” and making Arundel a cultural hub of the Laurentians. She does not take a break during the holidays.

The Cantivo Choir welcomes the holiday season on December 4 at 2 p.m. with a free concert. “The United Church in Arundel will resonate to the sounds of the emotional a cappella choir that moves and delights audiences,” says organizer Thomas.

The Arundel Elementary School Choir will delight one and all on December 13 at 10:45 a.m. at the United Church. The free Christmas concert is under the direction of Susan Cunningham, who reminds us that, “there is nothing like the sweet voices of children.”

The smell of Christmas

The aroma of a freshly cut pine tree immediately evokes the spirit of the holiday season.

Celebrating the season, Les Serres Arundel welcomes families throughout the month to harvest their Christmas tree. Hike through the farm’s fields and choose your own favourite from thousands of trees that have been growing for over thirty years. They’ll provide the tools; you provide the sweat. Browse the Christmas boutique while you are there.

The company’s annual “La Journée autocueillette de sapin” (cut your own tree day) is from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on December 3. Complete with outdoor bonfires, hot chocolate and music, it’s a family-friendly event to kickstart your Holidays.

Christmas is not just a Holiday in Arundel, it is a warm and special feeling of community. Stop by and share it this December.

Pascal and Bettina’s Farm: facebook.com/groups/304798848198508

P’tites Folies: ptitesfolies.com

Les Serres Arundel: lesserresarundel.com

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