Greetings from Festival Chair

There’s magic in the air for all who choose to visit Owen Sound’s award-winning volunteer-driven Festival of Northern Lights.

 

Little did Marie and Rob Walpole realize in 1987, when they wanted to brighten downtown’s  Sydenham River in winter, that their dream would launch the birth of one of the most spectacular winter displays in the province.

 

From one city block of wooden displays, made assembly-line fashion in the Walpole home, the Festival of Northern Lights has expanded to include 350 displays, located on both sides of the Sydenham River, in downtown Owen Sound, and extending into beautiful Harrison Park. More than 18 kilometers of  tree lights are reflected in the water and in the eyes of children every age who are enraptured  with the spectacle that is the Festival of Northern Lights.

 

Recognizing the need for energy conservation and utility cost savings, LED lights are being increasingly introduced to the festival where possible. As well, 2008's Festival saw its first solar powered display.

 

The Festival of Northern Lights is operated by a Advisory Board consisting of  12 members from local community and business, and works in partnership with the City of Owen Sound. Seven sub-committees ensure the smooth operation of the Festival with 200 volunteers working diligently to make this event a special time for each visitor.

 

This year’s festival will open Nov. 19, 2010 and conclude January 2, 2011 with lights on nightly from 5:00-11:00 P.M. We welcome you to let our festival “light” the child in you as you take in our winter wonderland of displays!

 

See you at the Festival of Northern Lights!

 

Doug McKee,

Chair,

Festival of Northern Lights.