Dave Jordan wasn’t exactly surprised to be in the winner’s circle with his Christmas yard display. It glitters with order, yet surprise, and the message “Dream” predominates the curbside display at 672, Kenderdine Street in Virden.
He noted the prize pack was outstanding for this year’s Very Virden Christmas lights contest. And he’s right. It all flows back to local shopping.
A Very Virden Christmas tour of lights included 20 homes, 14 businesses and the Town civic centre bringing the magic of Christmas to the streets. The residential winners received local gift certificates worth $550, $325 and $225 for first through third place.
Virden Boost Committee chaired by Tiffany Cameron worked with the Town of Virden in partnership with Valley View Co-op and Sunrise Credit Union to provide the resources for a great contest.
But Jordan said he doesn’t do it for a prize. “I do it for the joy it gives other people.” He wants his home to be on the route for those doing the Christmas light tour, but having won once, he won’t enter for a prize next year.
What does it take to create such a display? He says, he was “puttering away at it for about two weeks. The challenge is to create new interest.”
This year the hooped tunnel is one of the new features. He laughs, “I think there’s three miles of extension cords out there.”
Ever since Covid Jordan has put a little more effort into his display. “Neighborhood kids ask ‘when are you going to put your lights on?’” That’s where Jordan’s motivation comes from!
The lights of all those in the contest and other homes who put out displays all add to the atmosphere at the Christmas season. Placing second and third is no small feat.
