The story has taken shape like a fairy tale-come-true, as the newly re-elected mayor of Montreal, Mr. Gerald Tremblay, proudly announced the return of the Old Montreal Extravaganza from December 5, 2009 until January 6, 2010. The event has been a highlight for the city’s culture and the arrival of winter since 1999.
The organising committee was commended for their efforts by Old Montreal merchants, who have reaped the benefits and good exposure from the many free activities held near their doorsteps.
The festival will kick off at the New Year’s Grand Ball at Place Jacques-Cartier, just in front of City Hall in Montreal, where Mayor Tremblay will be on site. The mayor seems to want to be heavily involved in the festivities, since he also decorated a special Christmas tree for the occasion that will be seen at the Bonsecours Market for the Stars’ Christmas Trees event. After the festival, each of the decorated trees will be given to the organisation that each particular star chooses.
Last year, the Old Montreal Extravaganza drew in over 22,000 people despite the Siberian temperatures, and proved that the celebration is worthy of a reprise.