Shine Bright New West is back, and this year, it’s bigger and brighter than ever.
“Last year, the City wanted to offer something during the holidays that was safe for everyone. Shine Bright was created, and it was a huge success,” special events program coordinator Lisa Kemp says.
“The community loved it, and this year has been a chance to grow and expand on what we offer.”
In total, 12 different community organizations within New West have partnered with the City to grow this year’s event to a massive celebration that truly encapsulates and celebrates the holiday spirit, with the event running from Dec. 1, 2021, to Feb. 1, 2022.
From touring dazzling light displays to indulging in local shopping, there are so many fun and festive winter activities for the entire family to enjoy.
With this in mind, here are five ways you can participate in this year’s Shine Bright New West:
Light displays
Does your display stand out from others on your street? Enter your colourful, dynamic, bold, and unique light displays in the contest! Residents will pick a winner in two categories: commercial and residential.
Residents and businesses alike are invited to enter their fantastically festive light display into a friendly contest where community members will choose the winner.
An interactive light display map will lead the way through all the best, most stunning displays in the city, helping you set your route around the community. Then, you can cast your vote for your favourite online.
Several organizations in the community are also hosting large displays, which are a must-see.
Shine at-home activities
For those looking to take it easy and relax, the City is also offering several engaging activities for families to participate in at home.
Sharpen your pencils and get your crayons out for the Shine Bright colouring contest. All you need to do is print off a PDF from the website or pick up a colouring sheet at Centennial, Centennial Community Centre, Century House, or Queensborough Community Centre, and submit your finished masterpiece for a chance to win a prize.
Don’t miss out on a Shine Bright Take-Home Celebration Kit. These winter holiday and Lunar New Year celebration kits include holiday-themed activities, family-oriented crafts, and giveaways sure to dazzle and captivate all ages.
The celebration kit has everything a family needs to enjoy the holiday season – the only tools you need at home are scissors, glue, colouring tools, and your imagination. Registration is required for a pick-up time slot.
Shine outdoor activities
The sun may be at its lowest, but the community spirit is at its highest.
Strap on your dancing shoes and join the Shine Bright Winter Solstice Party for a family-friendly dance party. Dance in the new season, gather with loved ones, decorate for the holidays, and enjoy good food together.
Maybe dancing isn’t really your thing? That’s okay, too. Community members are also invited to decorate designated Christmas trees. Come by and hang your simple ornament or inspiring quote, demonstrate your daring or dashing decorating skills, and indulge in sharing the festive spirit with others.
Shopping local
This holiday season, if you still have some names to cross off your gift list, there’s no better way to channel the season of giving than by giving back to local businesses.
Shine Bright Downtown, offered in partnership with the Downtown BIA, provides the opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying light displays and activations in the downtown area. Every Thursday in December will feature an elevated shopping experience for you to fulfil all your holiday needs.
TD Uptown Live Christmas, offered in partnership with the Uptown BIA, runs from Dec. 3 to Dec. 19, 2021, and features live music, light displays and lots of local shopping.
Shine on stage productions
Indulge in some holiday cheer and culture by enjoying the sounds and spirit of the season with various live theatre and music events throughout the city.
Thursday Tunes features music in the park performed by a collection of local musicians and talents. Bring your own chair, blankets, beverages, and snacks, and settle in as you’re taken on an artistic journey. However, make sure to dress for the weather, as concerts will take place rain or shine. As they say, the show must go on!
Both the Anvil Centre and the Massey Theatre are offering a slate of holiday programming. From beatboxing to puppetry, magic to jazz, comedy to pipe bands, poetry to singalongs, and more, there are shows for every age and stage.
All these activities and more will be featured at this year’s Shine Bright New West. To see the full schedule, please visit www.newwestcity.ca/shinebright.
