Community Tree Lighting celebration returns to downtown

The Sault Ste. Marie Downtown Association Moonlight Magic event and Community Tree Lighting celebration will return this year, states a release issued by the City of Sault Ste. Marie.

After the ongoing pandemic forced the cancellation of previous activities, the 2021 Moonlight Magic event is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. on Nov. 18 followed by the Community Tree Lighting at 7 p.m.

Full text of the news release follows:

The City of Sault Ste. Marie is delighted to support the return of the Downtown Association’s Moonlight Magic initiatives including the annual Community Tree Lighting celebration.

The event returns on Nov. 18, 2021 at 7 p.m. in front of the courthouse. As a result of the pandemic, the community has been unable to celebrate a number of local events. The 2021 Tree Lighting celebration and Moonlight Magic, presented with public safety in mind, is sure to boost the spirits of the community as the official kick off to the festive season.

“The Community Tree Lighting Ceremony has become a celebration and attraction many people in our community look forward to, and I want to thank the Downtown Association, city Staff and our community partners for continuing to work together to provide a fun event,” said Mayor Christian Provenzano. “As a result of the pandemic, we’ve had to cancel a number of events over the past few years, and it is great to see the tree lighting and Moonlight Magic are moving forward in a safe and responsible manner.”

In addition to expanded hours for downtown shopping, local merchants will light their storefronts and unique light displays will be visible along Queen Street. Beginning at 6 p.m., live holiday music and visits with Santa will begin. Light installations will also be located at various sites including the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site, the future site of the Downtown Plaza, Paul Mall and Outspoken Brewery alley.

“The annual Tree Lighting and Moonlight Magic event is the highlight of the year for our Queenstown family and we are happy to see it return. Many organizations are working hard to build an even better event based on the success we have enjoyed and the feedback we have received in the past,” said Salvatore Marchese, executive director, Downtown Association. “As we prepare for a safe festive season we remind those planning to attend our events and storefronts to stay home if you are sick, keep your distance from others at the event and to wear your mask.”

The annual event is made possible through the support of many community sponsors. As event organizers seek to expand offerings, opportunities are available for businesses to sponsor some amazing new attractions including light and sound displays. For more information, contact the Downtown Association at [email protected].