Watch North Vancouver's giant Christmas tree light up (VIDEO)

It’s officially the holiday season, now that the City of North Vancouver’s giant Christmas tree is glowing brightly for all to see.

Due to provincial health restrictions in place to reduce COVID-19 transmission, North Vancouverites couldn’t gather like usual to watch the stunning tree light up at The Shipyards.

So, to help keep festive spirits high, the city filmed Mayor Linda Buchanan counting down to turn the twinkling lights on and posted a video to social media on Dec. 1, to share the moment with the community.

In a short holiday message, posted to Twitter, Buchanan acknowledged that this Christmas was “going to look very different than Christmases past, as we find new ways to celebrate while remaining physically distanced.”

With so many unknowns ahead, Buchanan encouraged the community to do what they could to support local not-for-profit organizations over the holiday period. 

“Although this year has been incredibly difficult for all of us, it has been harder for many in our community than we can ever imagine,” she said.

“If you have a little extra to give, I would encourage you to please think of the food banks and the non-profit agencies across the North Shore, who support our most vulnerable.”  

She finished her talk by wishing everyone a “very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”

The city has also cancelled its annual Shipyards Christmas market and cannot plan any other seasonal events, because of the PHO restrictions. On top of this, the city is still deciding whether or not it will be opening The Shipyards Skate Plaza, the region's largest outdoor ice-skating rink.

Although, families and households are welcome to enjoy a “warm and elegant holiday light display” at The Shipyards, while respecting all PHO restrictions.

“There’s twinkling lights, festive music and Christmas trees families can enjoy daily,” Stephanie Smiley, city communications officer, said.

The Spirit of the Season lights, sponsored by Seaspan and PEAK Technologies, will add festive cheer to The Shipyards until Jan. 4 from sunset onwards. 

Elisia Seeber is the North Shore News’ Indigenous and civic affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.