Children's Fund
Tree lighting - Dec 5 2025

Tree Lighting - Gore Park

The Christmas Tree of Hope Lighting Returns to Gore Park

Preparations are underway for another Christmas Tree of Hope Lighting Ceremony in Gore Park, and we cannot wait to bring Hamilton together again. Specific dates and times for 2026 will be announced soon.

For generations, the Gore Park tree lighting has marked the official start of the holiday season in Hamilton. The Rotary Club of Hamilton proudly continues that tradition, carrying forward the legacy once led by Corus Entertainment while adding new community focused energy and purpose.

A Partnership for the Community

The ceremony is made possible through the collaboration of the Downtown Hamilton Business Improvement Area and the City of Hamilton, working alongside the Rotary Club of Hamilton in partnership with Operation Santa Claus and the Rotary Children’s Fund.

Corus Entertainment’s Energy 95.3 and Y108 will once again broadcast live from the event, filling downtown with holiday music and the sound of a city coming together.

What to Expect

The evening traditionally includes:

  • Festive holiday music and live radio broadcasts
  • A countdown to the tree lighting, illuminating Gore Park for the season
  • Opportunities to donate unwrapped toys for Operation Santa Claus, or give to the Rotary Children’s Fund and Tree of Hope
  • Carousel rides, maple taffy and a chance for children to meet Santa

Full details on timing and activities will be posted here as they are confirmed.

Thank You to Our Supporters

Our sincere thanks to Michael St. Jean Real Estate and Vacu-Man Furnace and Duct Cleaning, whose generous support helps make this event possible, along with all of our partners and sponsors. Their commitment allows the Rotary Club of Hamilton to keep building traditions that strengthen our community.

Get Involved

Whether you come to enjoy the holiday glow or want to lend a hand as a volunteer, your presence makes the season brighter for children and families across Hamilton and Burlington.

Watch this page for 2026 dates, and join us in Gore Park to help light up the season.