The residents of Canmore, Alberta, rallied together to help a local family restore their popular Christmas display just 24 hours after it was vandalized on Boxing Day. Dave Ouellette has been putting up the display for over a decade, originally starting it to celebrate his daughter Rhyanna’s birth. The display, located just off Bow Trail, has grown in size and popularity over the years, becoming a must-see attraction during the holiday season. Ouellette estimates he has spent $100,000 on the display, which includes a rideable train, life-sized Darth Vader and Chewbacca statues, and numerous inflatables.
The community was shocked and saddened when they discovered that the display had been vandalized, with 15 inflatables being impacted. Ouellette described his emotions as going through confusion, anger, and resentment when he first saw the damage. His daughter, who has grown up with the display as a tradition, was also upset by the vandalism, calling it disrespectful and not cool. However, the family was touched by the outpouring of support from the community, who stepped up to help repair the decorations and show their appreciation for the beloved Christmas display.
Some residents helped repair the damaged decorations, while others offered words of support and appreciation for the Ouellette family. Despite the setback, the family felt a sense of pride and gratitude for the community coming together to help restore the display to its former glory. In the face of adversity, the Canmore community showed how much the display means to them through their actions of support and kindness. The iconic tradition will continue to capture the eye of everyone who walks by it, thanks to the help of the caring residents of Canmore.
A video obtained by Global News showed a person treating the decorations like a punching bag, with the act of vandalism caught on camera. Since the incident, one person has turned themselves in to the police, taking responsibility for the damage caused to the Christmas display. Despite this act of vandalism, the community’s response of coming together to restore the display and show their support for the Ouellette family demonstrates the strength and unity of the residents of Canmore. The display has become a symbol of holiday cheer and community spirit, bringing joy to all who witness it each year.
Dave Ouellette has dedicated countless hours over the years to creating and maintaining the Christmas display out of his love for the holiday season and the positive response from the community. The display has become a beloved tradition in Canmore, with residents and visitors alike looking forward to seeing it each year. The act of vandalism was a shocking and disappointing event, but the quick response and support from the community helped to restore faith and pride in the town. The outpouring of assistance and encouragement from the residents of Canmore highlights the strong sense of community and camaraderie that binds the town together, especially during challenging times.
The Ouellette family, especially Rhyanna, was deeply touched by the support and kindness shown by their neighbors and friends in Canmore. The display, which started as a small celebration of Rhyanna’s birth, has grown into a cherished tradition that brings joy and holiday spirit to the entire community. Despite the setback of the vandalism, the quick restoration of the display and the overwhelming response from the community served as a reminder of the resilience and generosity of the people of Canmore. The Christmas display stands as a symbol of unity and goodwill, showcasing the best of what a community can achieve when they come together in support of a common cause.
