From December 5, 2013 to January 7, 2014.

In Canada’s capital, hundreds of thousands of multicolored lights brighten the winter landscape. The festivities begin with a lighting ceremony in early December and continue until early January. During Christmas lights in Canada, lights twinkle every night from 4 h 30 to 2 h in Ottawa-Gatineau.

The program of the Christmas Lights across Canada was launched in 1985 to brighten the winter months in Ottawa. At first, only the Parliament hill was illuminated. Then, over the years, the program has grown. Today, the Christmas lights are shining, each winter, over more than 60 sites in Ottawa and Gatineau along the Confederation Boulevard each winter.

Photo : © Tourisme Outaouais

Canada proudly displays its history

The Parliament Building echoes the history of Canada. From July 10 to September 7, the National Capital Commission (NCC) reveals openly the 5th show Mosaika: Canada told by his people. Through projected images and light effects, traditions, culture and landscapes of the second largest country in the world will be revealed to the curious.

The representation will be divided into three acts: the first will explore the theme of the Earth, the second will show the achievements and the third will focus on Canadian values. Animated images will ride the front of Parliament and a good part of the Peace Tower. More than 200 fixed and mobile lighting devices will be deployed, as well as thirty automated lights, each producing about 16 million colors. 36 lights with low energy consumption will also be used. Finally, a custom-designed audio system will do the narration, sound effects and music band of the Mosaika. The performance will take place every evening on the Parliament Hill, including public holidays on Mondays in August and September, except during inclement weather. Chairs and blankets are also welcome to enjoy the magic of the show.