Lights Out

I recently joined an independent authors group. For the December meeting, members were tasked with writing a short story, 300 words or less, containing the line “Why are Santa’s workshop lights not on this year?” This is my submission:

December 16, 1984.
(the fictional town of) Bromegrass, Alberta

Christmas traditions are a mainstay of every community in Canada.  Whether it be a Santa Clause Parade, a Christmas dance, or a fireworks display, every town, in every province, has a unique event to mark the Holiday season.

Bromegrass hosts an annual Christmas Concert, at the Mac Theatre on Main Street.  School children present plays, and local choral groups sing carols.  There is often a recital, or a solo performance by an artist from the community. The Bromegrass Christmas concert is a long-held tradition, enjoyed by all.        

But Bromegrass is fortunate to have another annual tradition.  After the concert Santa Claus may, or may not, make an appearance.  If he does, he often smells like whiskey.

–

Bud McKay, the owner of the hardware store across the street from the Max is a jovial fellow, with a serious drinking problem.  Every year, Bud decorates his hardware store windows to look like Santa’s workshop. During the concert he sets up a decorated wagon in front of his store, and dons a Santa suit.  Bud carries a bag of candy-canes and waits to greet children as they emerge from the theatre. While he waits, Bud takes regular shots from a bottle he keeps tucked in his boot.

The after-concert Santa encounter has been a big hit for many years in Bromegrass, but last night it hit a snag.  As we emerged from the theatre my son looked up at me and asked;

“Dad, Why are Santa’s workshop lights not on this year?” 

It pained me to tell him, “I’m sorry son, Santa fell off the wagon and hurt himself.  He’ll be fine by Christmas”.  

MERRY CHRISTMAS!