• Bah, Humbug!

    Horsham, the quaint and picturesque market town where I make my home, traditionally kicked off the Christmas Season with a fireworks-infused Christmas Lights Turning-On Ceremony that attracted thousands.

    A few years ago, however, the town said the fireworks were too expensive, so they cancelled the ceremony and simply turned on the lights without any fanfare.

    This year, however, they have gone a step further, and decided to not even put up any lights to speak of.

    The local paper put a brave face on this situation by saying there “fewer Christmas lights” this year. That’s like saying Jordan has a few less IQ points than Einstein:

    The Carfax in years past

    The Carfax, this year.

    Middle Street looking toward West Street in 2003.

    The same view today, where the most festive item on the
    two streets is the cheerful glow of McDonald’s Golden Arches.

    The Bishopric in the glory days.

    The Bishopric as it is now, not even any street lights!!!

    It is a real shame when a town as famous as Horsham is for festive lights descends to such a miserly display. Other, smaller town have better displays than Horsham does.

    Heck, my own flat has a better display than this!