Residents will have a chance to get in the festive spirit by attending the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Justice Building courtyard (340 Pitt Street) on Friday, November 25th.

The event will run from 5:30 pm to 7 pm and will feature the lighting of the giant Christmas tree in the courtyard at approximately 6:30 pm.

There will be photos with Santa, hot chocolate and live entertainment to enjoy. In the spirit of giving, officials from Agapè Centre, Salvation Army, United Way SDG and Sparky’s Toy Drive will be on hand and attendees are encouraged to bring a food, toy or monetary donation with them. Peanut butter is one particular food item that is of great use to the Agapè Centre while Sparky’s Toy Drive will welcome donations of any type of new, unwrapped toy for children ages 0-16.

“This is a great opportunity to celebrate community and the Christmas season all at once,” said Mayor Leslie O’Shaughnessy.

Beginning at 6 pm, COGECOtv will do a live 30-minute broadcast from the site culminating with a countdown and lighting of the tree. One lucky child in attendance will win the chance to light the tree.

The segment will also include performances by the Cornwall Firefighters’ musical group, Amaryllis Choir and a promo of Seaway Valley Theatre Company’s upcoming musical Shrek Jr.

“It’s a joy to partner with the City of Cornwall to light-up the holidays,” said COGECOtv Station Manager Calvin Killoran. “We look forward to bringing viewers the sounds of the season during this festive time of the year along the big countdown to the lighting of the tree.”

In addition to the celebration at the Justice Building courtyard, select Downtown merchants will be open Friday evening with special deals and offers.

“After residents take in the sights and sounds of the Christmas tree lighting event, we would encourage them to continue Downtown and check out the great offerings from our retailers and restaurants,” said Todd Lihou, Centretown Coordinator. “It’s a great opportunity to explore our vibrant Downtown and support the local economy.”

The establishment of the giant Christmas tree at the Justice Building is made possible by the contributions of numerous partners including Strathmore tree farm, the Cornwall Community Police Service, the Downtown Business Improvement Area, City of Cornwall, Black & McDonald and Metro Towing.