Desjardins Group presents the 57th annual Cavalcade of Lights, illuminating Nathan Phillips Square at 100 Queen St. W.
Featuring a joyous opening night celebration with free entertainment, live performances, and art installations, the festival would represent more than 15 communities and cultures.
Inspired by Christmas, winter solstice, and lantern festivals worldwide, the official lighting ceremony will occur at 6:30 p.m. on November 25, 2023,
Highlights of the festival include:
- 3:00 p.m.: Welcome and blessing by Indigenous Elder Cat Criger
- 3:30 p.m.: Performance by the Toronto Chinese Orchestra
- 5:00 p.m.: Skating showcase with Team Trinity featuring Olympian and two-time National Champion Madeline Schizas
- 6:30 p.m.: Official lighting ceremony for the Christmas Tree and Nathan Phillips Square
- 7:00 p.m.: Fire performance by Hoop You with music by Zaki Ibrahim
- 9:00 p.m.: Folk dances combined with western street dance by T.S.D. Crew from Taiwan.
Don’t miss the free DJ Skate Party from 5 to 8 p.m. on December 2, 2023.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, accompanied by Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik (Spadina-Fort York), Councillor Anthony Peruzza (Humber River-Black Creek), Councillor Paul Ainslie (Scarborough-Guildwood), and Benaaz Irani, Senior Vice-President, Desjardins Agent Network would be on the stage at 6:30 p.m.
Until Sunday, January 7, 2024, Cavalcade of Lights Festival’s full program details and road closure information are available on the Cavalcade of Lights webpage: www.toronto.ca/cavalcade. Cavalcade of Lights Toronto
The ECHO
South of Main Stage
An interactive installation produced by Desjardins Financial Group that allows participants to explore the hidden power of their unique voices.
Lunar Lanterns of Indigenous Lights
Around Circle Stage
Explore stories of family, nature, and hope by Indigenous artists celebrating the Year of the Rabbit with this illuminating display by LunarFest GTA.
Peace & Love Lanterns
City Hall Main Entrance
Check out lanterns from Zigong in China’s Sichuan province, hand-crafted by more than 50 Zigong artisans in partnership with Woodside Square Shopping Centre.
Decorative Banners
Various Locations
Enjoy imagery on barricade covers inspired by cultures, communities, and light festivals from various international artists in partnership with MuseArts.
