Virtual Tree-Lighting Ceremony at the Canadian Museum of History

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

For immediate release

Gatineau, Quebec, November 30, 2020 — The Canadian Museum of History is pleased to invite Canadians across the country to a virtual tree-lighting ceremony on December 7, starting at 6 p.m. (EST), via Facebook and YouTube.

This year, join us for a virtual version of a favourite holiday celebration, from the comfort of your home. After a countdown, our giant fir tree will shine bright with several thousand blue and white lights.

To add to the festivities, there will be musical performances by the Acadian ensemble Moyenne Rig and the duo Jessica Pearson and the East Wind. Each will perform two songs before the official tree-lighting countdown begins.

Although the Museum remains temporarily closed, you can still visit our exterior grounds this holiday season. Check out our spectacular tree, which will be illuminated every evening until January 9. While you’re there, participate in our fun family activity: Gingerbread Invasion! Spot all the gingerbread characters hiding in the Museum’s windows.

Want more reasons to celebrate? We’re launching an amateur photography contest. Take a picture of a luminous object or place that brings you joy, then share it on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #LightsCanMusHistory. The contest runs until January 9, when one randomly selected winner will receive a gift basket filled with beautiful souvenir items from the Museum’s Gift Shop.

The tree-lighting ceremony usually kicks off the Museum’s Christmas Market, which brings together more than 80 exhibitors each year. Although it’s not possible to hold this popular event in 2020, we hope that it will be back in the Grand Hall in time for next year.

 Virtual Tree-Lighting Ceremony
Monday, December 7 at 6 p.m. (EST)
Watch online via Facebook and YouTube
Join us online for this year’s virtual tree-lighting ceremony, featuring guest performances by the Acadian musical ensemble Moyenne Rig, and duo Jessica Pearson and the East Wind.

Gingerbread Invasion!
From December 1 to January 9
Gingerbread characters have invaded the Museum! Be on the lookout for tricky holiday treats hiding in the Museum’s windows. Spot them all and pose for a fun family photo on our festive grounds!

More information is available at historymuseum.ca or by calling 819-776-7000 or 1-800-555-5621.

Work of the Canadian Museum of History is made possible in part through financial support of the Government of Canada.

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