**** HRM Media Release
Update on municipal seasonal events
Due to the impacts of COVID-19, there are a number of changes for annual holiday celebrations and commemorations organized by the municipality. As with all aspects of COVID-19, these events may be subject to change depending on public health and group gathering regulations.
Halifax Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting
The in-person tree lighting ceremony at Grand Parade Square is cancelled for this year. The tree is in place and decorated, and a virtual Christmas tree lighting video will be shared on the municipality’s Youtube page on Saturday, Nov. 28, premiering at 8 a.m.
Further, a holiday projection and light show at Grand Parade Square begins on Saturday, Nov. 28 until Friday, Jan 1. Residents who wish to view the lights show must abide by all public health protocols, including physical distancing of 6 feet (2 metres). For the full schedule and details, visit the website.
The in-person Menorah lighting ceremony is cancelled for this year. The Menorah will be lit in Grade Parade from Friday, Dec. 11 until Friday, Dec. 18.
Dartmouth Tree Lighting
The in-person Dartmouth tree lighting event is also cancelled for this year. In its place a variety of holiday illuminations will be on display in downtown Dartmouth throughout the month of December. Residents must maintain a physical distance of 6 feet (2 metres). Full details will be available online by Tuesday, Dec. 1.
Halifax Explosion Memorial Ceremony
The 103rd in-person memorial ceremony of the Halifax Explosion is cancelled. Wreaths will be placed at Fort Needham Memorial Park commemorating the tragic loss of life on Dec. 6, 1917 and honoring the resiliency and recovery of those who survived the explosion. Mayor Mike Savage will address citizens virtually on Saturday, Sunday, Dec. 6, at 9 a.m. on the Halifax Regional Municipality’s Facebook page.
New Year’s Eve
A studio broadcast of the New Year’s Eve show will be held this year. There will be no in-person outdoor gathering due to current COVID-19 regulations. More information, as well as an artist announcement, will be made in December.
For more information on all of these events, visit halifax.ca/events
