Music in the street
Live music, including a festive violin performance, keeps the street merry all evening.
Christmas Tree of Hope Lighting Ceremony
Presented by
Friday, November 20, 2026
Christmas Tree of Hope Lighting Ceremony
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A street full of music. A tree full of light. A community coming together for Hamilton’s children.
Save the date
Friday, November 20
2026
Come together
5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Tree lighting at 6 p.m.
Meet us here
Hess Village
Hamilton, Ontario
Let’s light up the season
A little Christmas magic. A whole lot of community.
Join the Rotary Club of Hamilton and Hess Village for the Christmas Tree of Hope Lighting Ceremony. Santa, Rotarians and neighbours from across Hamilton come together for an evening of music, holiday shopping and community, all in support of Hamilton’s children.
Live on the air
Y108 and Energy 95.3 broadcast live from the event.
The moment we light the tree
Gather with Santa and our Rotary team for the countdown at 6 p.m.
Share a little joy
Help make Christmas brighter for a child.
Bring a new, unwrapped toy for Operation Santa Claus, or donate to the Rotary Children’s Fund. Your generosity puts gifts into the hands of children across Hamilton.
Before you head out
A few helpful details.
The exact gathering point and any added details will be posted here as they’re confirmed, so keep this page handy.
- Dress for an outdoor evening. The celebration takes place on the street in Hess Village.
- Shop the evening market. Local makers and vendors set up in Hess Village from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with food and drink at the Village restaurants.
- Make a weekend of it. The Hess Village Holiday Market continues Saturday, November 21, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, November 22, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Visit Hess Village.
- Bring a toy if you can. New and unwrapped, for Operation Santa Claus.
- Can’t make it? Find a toy drop-off location or organize a corporate toy drive.