Christmas Lights Across Canada Ceremony 2006

For many, the Christmas season officially kicks off on Thursday (December 7) with the annual Christmas Lights Across Canada Ceremony at Confederation Building.

The Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Transportation and Works, will host the event, which starts at 6:15 p.m.

The celebration has become a yuletide tradition here in Newfoundland and Labrador; part of the annual Christmas Lights Across Canada Ceremony, when thousands of lights are illuminated across the country as a symbol of national unification.

�This event is always a lot of fun and I encourage families in the area to take part and experience it for themselves,� said Minister Hickey.

The festivities begin with Christmas carols sung by the St. Andrew�s Elementary School Choir and further musical entertainment provided by the Royal Newfoundland Regiment Band. Minister Hickey will throw the switch to light the tree in front of Confederation Building at about 6:45 p.m.

Local entertainer Shelley Neville will be the Master of Ceremonies. Hot chocolate, cake, tea and coffee will be available afterwards. The public is invited to join other Canadians in ringing in the holidays.

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Media contact:
David Salter
Director of Communications
Department of Transportation and Works
709-729-3015, 691-3577
davidsalter@gov.nl.ca

2006 12 06                               9:30 a.m.