Peterborough is getting ready to sparkle this holiday season as the city gears up for its third annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Quaker Foods City Square. The event promises a mix of festive entertainment, local shopping, and family-friendly activities, drawing residents together to kick off December with warmth and cheer.
The ceremony takes place on Friday, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with the official tree lighting set for 5:30 p.m. Mayor Jeff Leal will flip the switch on the downtown tree, supplied by Treescape Canada and illuminated by Barry Electric. Families and friends can also enjoy a return of the illuminated Peterborough sign, a popular backdrop for holiday photos.
Attendees can sip hot chocolate, indulge in BeaverTails pastries, browse goods from local vendors, and enjoy music from a live DJ throughout the evening. Nour Mazloum, Executive Director of the Peterborough DBIA, says the event has quickly become a downtown tradition. “There is something very special about gathering together downtown on a December evening to enjoy local treats, discover unique gifts, take in the music and watch the tree light up with your neighbours,” Mazloum said.
The tree lighting kicks off a full weekend of holiday activities downtown. Shops will stay open late on Friday with double stamps on holiday shopping passports, and the First Friday Holiday Night Market will run from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Bankers Commons Courtyard at 383 Water Street. On Saturday, the Peterborough DBIA hosts a Holiday Market at Quaker Square from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., featuring more local vendors and makers.
Quaker Foods City Square, located at 215 Charlotte Street just east of Aylmer Street, is a short walk from the Peterborough Transit Terminal. Free two-hour holiday parking is available downtown through December 31, including on-street spaces, municipal lots, and the King Street and Simcoe parking garages. The initiative is sponsored by Wolfe Personal Injury Lawyers to encourage local shopping and support Kawartha Food Share.
With lights, music, treats, and community spirit, this year’s tree lighting promises to be a festive highlight that sets the tone for the holiday season.
(Written: Scott Arnold)
