The holidays are approaching, which means that many people are looking for ways to get in the festive spirit. Saint-Louis-de-Gonzague resident Stéphan Desautels is doing his part by opening his property to folks from the community each week for a whimsical walk through a light display.
This is the third year that Desautels has organized this event. He was inspired to start after seeing the rainbow campaign during COVID and the way it made people feel connected. Both he and his wife, Isabelle, are already heavily involved in the community, and put a lot of value in that connection. They help organize the annual Easter Egg Hunt, where about 200-250 kids participate in the hunt throughout the town. Desautels is also on the committee for the Family Festival that takes place each year.
Last year, this light path had about 250-300 visitors over the course of the time it was open. Desautels says the goal is “to promote and help keep alive the traditions we have in Quebec, and the importance of the Christmas season, so that the kids can keep the memories of it.” He adds that this is an event for all ages and “People can expect a lot of wonder.”
This year’s path does have a bit of a narrative to it. Guests will be guided by their “conductor” and will encounter elves who have been up to mischief. These elves have made stars fall from the sky, and visitors are tasked with finding a bell that will help the stars return home. The path is full of games, chants, and surprises. At the end, there are also treats available like coffee, hot chocolate, and marshmallows over the fire. Being able to roast a marshmallow is something that people get to do less and less frequently, especially if they live in the city. Desautels wants to be able to provide an experience that will fill guests with holiday excitement.
Events like this are a way to connect with each other. “Sometimes we see our neighbours and we wave, but we don’t stop to chat. This is a time of year where we can stop to talk, see each other and get to know each other better,” Desautels says. He hopes that this will be a contribution to passing on traditions, as well as allowing people to bond at this time of year. He says it will even “help the parents find the wonder they had before.”
For more information, you can check out the Jardin Doré Desautels Facebook page. The path will be open on Saturdays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. No reservation is required. This event is free; however, donations will be accepted and any funds raised will be donated to local causes.