Cavalcade of Lights

Thousands braved the blistering cold to attend Toronto’s Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square on Nov 29. This is the 42nd year Toronto has featured the holiday tradition, a glittering display of a 60’ Christmas tree and over 300,000 lights. It is truly a sight to see. The square is fully lit from dusk until 11 pm every night during the holiday season.

Canadian designer, Brian Gluckstein succeeded in putting into effect this year’s theme “Modern Canadiana.” The lighting display of thousands of red, white and silver lights really contributes to the environment of festivity that Canadians feel during the Christmas season.

Mary Loudis, a regular patron of the Christmas event said, “This is something I love to bring my family to every year. My kids enjoy the chance to stay up late and see the lights come on while they skate. It gives our family the opportunity to spend some good quality time together.”

Ice-skating, food stands and small merchant stands are a few of the attractions planned for the months of December and January. Patrons enjoyed the ambience of a variety of music played by house DJ Tony Sutherland.

Shortly after the lighting of the tree and a jaw dropping fireworks show, the ice rink was prepped for the many skaters eager to get a taste of the fresh ice. After 15 minutes of waiting, the anxious skaters loudly counted down with DJ Tony. Then they were off to glide under the large arch of shimmering lights and stars.


Melissa Soloris, a student at the University of Toronto for the past two years said, “ I love the atmosphere of tonight. Everyone just seems so happy and at peace. The lights, the music, the people, everything is just so nice. This is my first time coming to the opening ceremony and I am so happy that I made the effort to attend. I will definitely want to make this a tradition.”

The City of Toronto promises that each Saturday there will be a free outdoor concert and fireworks production. There will also be ice-skating until 10 pm with popular dj’s of Toronto.