Surrey: The City of Surrey will host the ninth annual Surrey Tree Lighting Festival and Holiday Market at Surrey Civic Plaza on Saturday, November 23 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Residents and visitors are invited to watch the 60 ft tall Christmas Tree decorated with giant holiday ornaments, lights and a star tree-topper light up at 6:30 p.m. to mark the start of the holiday season.

“The Surrey Tree Lighting Festival is not only a holiday tradition in our city, but it has become one of our most popular events of the year,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “I want to invite everyone to mark the date down and join us for this special celebration that kicks off the festive holiday season.”

Presented by Coast Capital Savings, this year’s free event will feature new lights and interactive displays on the festival grounds including an illuminated Light Tunnel, Enchanted Forest, North Pole Stage and Candy Cane Dance Tent. Other highlights include the popular Holiday Market and Village, featuring local vendors, crafters, free photos with Santa, and many more festive activities. The Holiday Fun Zone on University Drive will feature a variety of food trucks and sports activities, including road hockey, inflatables and amusement rides.

“As the largest private-sector employer with its headquarters in the city, we are excited to be the presenting sponsor of the Surrey Tree Lighting Festival because this community is indeed our home,” said Maureen Young, Director, Community leadership, at Coast Capital Savings. “In addition to investing 10 per cent of our bottom line in programs that help young people achieve financial well-being, Coast Capital Savings is always pleased to partner with the city on events that celebrate our community spirit and this festival is a fantastic way for Surrey to usher in the most wonderful time of the year.”

Over 30 local performers, choirs and children’s acts will offer free live performances across seven stages throughout the day. Award-winning Canadian pop singer Begonia will headline the Main Stage after the inaugural tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. Additional performers include Fleetwood Mac tribute band Dreams, local alternative rock band, Hotel Mira and indie pop group Leisure Club. Holiday choirs will perform on the Tree Riser Stage, Snowflake Stage and in the City Centre Library.

The Surrey Food Bank, Surrey Christmas Bureau, Sophie’s Place and the Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society will be on site collecting donations. For more information visit www.surrey.ca/treelighting.