The inaugural Cavalcade of Lights was held in 1967. Originally, it was a one-night event that marked the official beginning of the Christmas season. On the last Saturday of November, the official City of Toronto Christmas tree was lighted and fireworks were set off, letting people know that the holiday season began.
In 2002, Cavalcade of Lights was transformed into a month-long festival featuring displays of energy-efficient LED lighting in Toronto neighborhoods, live music, Saturday night skating parties at an outdoor rink, and other festive events and activities. The festival usually concludes on New Year’s Eve (December 31).
Musical performances have always been an integral part of Christmas festivities in Toronto. Since its inception, Cavalcade of Lights has presented Canadian and international performers, offering quality entertainment. For Canadian musicians, an invitation to perform at Toronto’s Cavalcade of Lights is a great honor and recognition of their talent at the national level. In addition to singers and musicians, the festival features dancers, DJs, circus performance troupes, and fire artists. A performance by the Toronto Children’s Chorus is a staple of Cavalcade of Lights.
Cavalcade of Lights usually starts around 6 or 7 p.m., but it is advisable to arrive at Nathan Philips Square in advance because every year thousands of people turn up to watch the lighting of Toronto’s official Christmas tree, and it can be hard to find a good viewing point in the crowd. Live music performances, a skating party and spectacular fireworks complete the festive evening.
The official Christmas tree is illuminated from dusk to 11:00 p.m. every night throughout the festive season. The beautiful 60-foot (18-meter) tree is illuminated with more than half a million LED lights and is a sight to behold.
Photo: torontoist.com
