Signal Hill Star

Photo: JP Mullowney / ©Parks Canada

The lighting of the Signal Hill Star on Cabot Tower is a much-loved tradition signaling the start of the holidays. The design is based on the compass star, reflecting the communications and nautical significance of this national historic site, but it is also a symbol of hope and connection. The Star brings people together, with many making a point to visit each year to take pictures, enjoy festive treats, and make memories. The Star will be lit on December 2nd and you can enjoy its beauty until Old Christmas Day.

Confederation Building and Parkway

Photo: Brian Carey Photography

The Confederation Building and trees lining the parkway will be lit up at the Christmas Lights Across Canada Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 2nd. The event takes place in the East Block lobby of the Confederation Building at 5:30pm with limited in person capacity—it will also be livestreamed on the Government of NL Facebook Page! A special child will be given the opportunity to flip the switch that lights up the parkway and the tree in front of Confederation Building at 6:15pm. Talk about heart-warming.

Self-Guided Festival of Music and Lights

Photo: @bensmithnl

This is one that many people look forward to every year! Ring in the holiday season with the city’s annual celebration of bright lights, and festive music at the City of St. John’s Self-Guided Festival of Music and Lights. This year, you can enjoy the musical performances and beautiful lights on the trees and paths surrounding the Duck Pond in Bowring Park whenever you like. Between December 3 and January 6, that is! Listen to a playlist of Christmas music on your smartphone, or by tuning into FM radio, while strolling through the park to get into the Christmas spirit.

MUN Botanical Garden’s Merry and Bright Festival

This time of year, the Botanical Gardens really gets into the holiday spirit with a spectacular light display that you won’t want to miss. Take an evening stroll at their Merry and Bright Festival: sip a hot chocolate, warm yourself by the fire, and leave feeling merry and bright. This is the perfect holiday event for all ages and it’s on from December 3 to December 22. Tickets always go fast, so be sure to book your spot soon!

Downtown Holiday Shop & Stroll

Photo: @mattmanorphoto

Take a stroll downtown to check out the beautiful festive light displays and listen to live performances by musical entertainers and carolers. The city’s downtown Shop & Stroll event is happening from 12:00 to 5:00 PM on Saturday November 27, December 4, and December 11. Get into the holiday spirit and support your local community. Oh, while you’re downtown, don’t forget to drop off your letter to Santa in Santa’s mailbox on 348 Water Street!

Quidi Vidi Tree Lighting

Photo: Ray Mackey Photography

Quidi Vidi is somehow made even more spectacular this time of year with the lighting of the perfect Christmas tree nestled into the cliffside. This year, the tree is set to be lit on December 1st. Get outside, take a walk around Quidi Vidi, and check out the beautifully lit Christmas tree. Or, take a seat inside Quidi Vidi Brewery, sip on your favourite beverage, and check out the tree through the brewery’s huge windows. Who knows, maybe it’ll snow and you can take in the sights while feeling like you’re in the middle of a magical snow globe.