WAYNE ROSTAD - HOST
Wayne Rostad is a recording artist, a former national CBC television presenter and a singer/songwriter who has been recognized across Canada as a national treasure.
His story-telling and musical talents led to the CBCs – On the Road Again series for which he was nominated nine times for the Gemini Award as best performance as a host. He authored the book” Wayne Rostad: On the Road Again” in 1996, which is a collection of stories emanating from the television series.
He founded the “Wayne Rostad Gatineau Clog”, a major outdoor summer festival event held at various locations in Western Quebec, which attracted thousands of fans and featured top acts from Nashville as well as Canada’s top attractions.
His song “Christmas in The Valley”, has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for various charity organizations which led to Wayne being named the inaugural recipient of the CCMA’s Humanitarian Award.
Close to 35 years ago, Wayne and few community members initiated the very first Light Up the Night, and Wayne continues to lend his time and talent to one of the finest communities in the Valley and one of the finest outdoor winter concerts anywhere!
Wayne is also a proud recipient of The Order of Canada.
BRENT MCLAREN
Brent spent some of his youth living on Mill Street in Almonte so it's always been a place near and dear to his heart. He currently resides in Perth and is known as the Town Crier of the town. He is excited to be part of the Light Up the Night! event and this annual tradition spanning several decades.
RACHELLE BEHRENS
With a distinctive and expressive voice, Rachelle Behrens is an Ottawa-based, multilingual vocalist – seamlessly blending her Latin roots, Jazz upbringing and love of Soul and Rock music with ease. Her repertoire combines classic melodies from Latin and North America and her performances take the audience on a musical journey through the Americas as she performs in English, Spanish, Portuguese and French and even some Italian! Her extensive vocal range and powerful delivery demonstrate why she is considered one of Canada’s most versatile singers.
NELSON COLT
Nelson Colt started playing live at the young age of 16 during the mid 1980’s. He quickly formed a country four-piece group named “Northern Express” and toured Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec.
In early 2000’ he put together a tribute show to George Strait and toured the show with tremendous success playing both in Canada and in the United States. That success led Nelson to begin working with Barry Brown from the Family Brown Country group, who co-wrote the songs on Nelsons’ current EP, which was recorded in Nashville.
Nelson continues to perform live and tour with his new band and when he’s not touring, he runs his own recording studio!
BRAIDEN WYMAN
Braiden is a country music recording artist, a singer/songwriter who has worked with the likes of Blue Rodeo, Glass Tiger, and George Canyon to name a few. She is one of the singers who frequently performs the National Anthem at the Ottawa-Redblacks Football games and the Ottawa 67s Hockey games. Her pure, clear soprano voice is haunting, and she is bringing to audiences as a featured entertainer in the Wayne Rostad Christmas in the Valley 2025 Christmas tour throughout the Ottawa Valley.
DAN BLACKWELL
Dan is well-known country music recording artist in the Ottawa Valley. He was an integral part of the country music powerhouse band Blackwell. He has worked with the likes of Gene Watson, David Wilcox, Terry Clark and Kix Brooks. This Christmas he is touring the valley with Gail Gavan and her Christmas Country Show. Dan is famous for his beautiful voice and his standout vocal performances.
TELICIA & SAVANNA WING
Telicia, was born in Almonte and her husband owns a local business in Pakenham. Together they have 3 children, one of whom is Savanna. Telicia is known for her warm personality and natural sense of humour.
Growing up in Almonte, Telicia fell in love with music early on and always dreamed of sharing her voice with others and though she’s nervous about stepping into the spotlight, her courage and passion have made that dream a reality. Her journey is a heartfelt reminder that it’s never too late to follow the music in your heart.
ALMONTE LEGION PIPE BAND BRANCH 240
A community band with a focus on learning and having fun. They support veterans and the activities of the Legion.
VALLEY VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR
A volunteer community choir whose focus is on making good music while having a great time. They love performing and look forward to singing for you.
PUPPETS
Puppeteers Sarah Argue and Jenny Sheffield will be bring to life the Light Up the Night puppets with their energy and great sense of humour!
SNOW QUEEN & TWINKLE FAIRIES
Hailing from the Almonte Dance Academy, they wave their magical wands to summon Santa Claus and begin the enchanting fireworks show.
