A 40-foot Colorado spruce tree stands tall after being fully lit at City Hall on Friday, November 14, 2014. (TED GRANT / CHRISD.CA)
WINNIPEG — It took a forestry crew several days to completely cover it in 9,000 multi-coloured LED lights — and Friday was showtime.
The giant 40-foot Colorado spruce Christmas tree in the courtyard of City Hall was illuminated this evening. Mayor Brian Bowman took part in his first ceremonial tree-lightning on live TV just after 6 p.m.
“Absolutely beautiful. This is what Winnipeg is all about,” Bowman said after taking a selfie in front of the tree. “It’s so wonderful to see everybody here and we’re going to be able to enjoy this thanks to Boris (Todoruk) donating this tree. We’re going to be able to enjoy this all season long and it’s just a wonderful way to kick start and get ready for the Santa Claus Parade tomorrow.”
The Winnipeg Children’s Choir was on hand to provide music for those in attendance, and the Salvation Army collected donations for their annual Toy Mountain campaign.
Following the lighting, Bowman invited members of the public into City Hall and the mayor’s office as part of an open house.
— Staff
