It seemed like all of Kelowna gathered at the Landmark District for the annual Tree of Hope Light-Up on Saturday, Nov. 23.
The entire district has been turned into a winter wonderland with a holiday market, skating rink, food trucks, hot chocolate and more that started at 12 p.m. but the main event happened five hours later.
Every year, the event is put on by the Stober Foundation that selects a community partner to help bring awareness to their cause. This year, the partner is Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR) and just before the lighting of the tree, the Stober Foundation donated $500,000 to COSAR.
"With this incredible donation, it strengthens our ability to maintain top-notch equipment, training, and facilities, helping us to meet the growing demand of our region," said COSAR's Terry Downs. "Your support ensures we can serve our community today and for the years to come."
Kelowna mayor Tom Dyas lit the tree and he was in attendance with council members Loyal Wooldridge, Maxine DeHart, Gord Lovegrove and Ron Cannon as well as Kelowna-Centre MLA Kristina Loewen and Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream MLA Tara Armstrong.
"For many years, this event marks the start of the holiday season in Kelowna," said Dyas. "It is wonderful to see how animated the Landmark District has become."
"For the last 27 years, the Tree of Hope has symbolized inspiration, hope and positivity," added Dyas.
After the light-up, local country artist Dawson Grey took the main stage for a country Christmas performance.
Many more light-ups and Christmas event are scheduled in the Central Okanagan:
- Downtown Kelowna Light-up and Winter Market - Saturday, Nov. 30, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Stuart Park;
- Rutland Light-Up - Sunday, Dec. 1, 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Rutland Centennial Park;
- Lake Country Christmas Light-Up - Saturday, Dec. 7, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Cenotaph Park;
- Parade with a Purpose on Bernard Avenue - Saturday, Dec. 14.
