Date set for downtown plaza launch event

The long-awaited official launch of Sault Ste. Marie's downtown plaza will be next week, on Thursday Nov. 16.

After being delayed by months of supply-related construction issues and then by last month's horrendous mass shooting, the opening ceremony will take place the same evening as this year's Moonlight Magic and annual tree-lighting, members of the Downtown Association were told tonight at their monthly board meeting.

Details of the plaza launch weren't immediately available, but Moonlight Magic will run from 4-11 p.m. with late-night shopping, hot chocolate and cider, as well as holiday markets.

"It's going to be awesome... It's going to be a pretty big event," said Nicholas Luck, the Downtown Association's executive director.

The controversial $11.6-million plaza has been accessible to the public for some time

Time and specifics of the plaza's official launch on Nov. 16 will be announced by the City of Sault Ste. Marie, but discussion among Downtown Association directors tonight seemed to favour something around 6 p.m.

SooToday will post further details as they're announced.