Hundreds of Thousands of Christmas Lights Set to Brighten up Canada's Capital Region

** Hundreds of Thousands of Christmas Lights Set to Brighten up Canada’s Capital Region **

** Minister Glover invites Canadians to kick off the holiday season with the 30th edition of Christmas Lights Across Canada **

The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, in collaboration with exclusive sponsor Manulife, is pleased to invite the public to the launch of the 30th edition of Christmas Lights Across Canada.

The official illumination ceremony will take place on Parliament Hill at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 3.

Minister Glover will be joined by Elisabeth Walker-Young, four-time Paralympian and Chef de mission for the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games, as well as a representative from Manulife and special guests as they officially switch on about 320,000 multicoloured lights that will illuminate Canada’s Capital Region every evening from 4:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. until January 7, 2015.

** Quick Facts **

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 An important national component of Christmas Lights Across Canada is the sharing of holiday wishes from all 13 premiers at the illumination ceremony. Many provincial and territorial capitals also hold their own lighting ceremonies.


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 The celebration will include performances by De La Salle Public High School Choir to adding to the festive mood of the evening.


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 Those in attendance are invited to indulge in some favourite winter treats: BeaverTails® pastries, hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows (free while supplies last).


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 Sign language interpreters will provide simultaneous interpretation of the event on Parliament Hill in American Sign Language and Quebec Sign Language. An induction loop system for persons with hearing impairment will also be available on site.