New Westminster, B.C. – The City of New Westminster is excited to present the fourth annual Shine Bright New West, with an entire month of events and activities starting December 1, 2023. This three-time award winning event features over 40 experiences this year, including the new and notable Wishing Tree charity interactive display and Snowflake Spectacular music and dance performances.

“The City of New Westminster is committed to fostering a community where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Shine Bright is a welcoming and inclusive event that brings people together to celebrate the season and experience our natural spaces in a new light,” said Mayor Patrick Johnstone.

The Wishing Tree in Moody Park is presented in partnership with BC Parks Foundation, and contributes towards the 25 x 25 campaign, which aims to raise enough funds to protect 25 percent of Canada’s land and sea by 2025. For every wish made at the Wishing Tree (or online), $10 will be donated towards the campaign. Join the Lighting Ceremony on December 1, 5:00 – 8:00 pm, for giveaways, warm beverages, fire pits, and live entertainment.

Held in the newly revitalized Uptown Plaza, the Snowflake Spectacular is a free public event presented with Small Stage and in partnership with Uptown Business Association. It features live music and dance, a snow globe display, snowflake activities, and more. There are two opportunities to enjoy this event, on December 8 and 15, 5:00 – 8:00 pm.

Residents are encouraged to continue the Shine Bright New West experience at home by setting up their own holiday light displays, and participating in Tourism New West’s Instagram contest for a chance to win a Shine Bright prize pack.

Shine Bright New West 2023 is sponsored by Arts New West, BC Parks Foundation, Downtown New West BIA, Filipino-Canadian Society for International Arts & Events, Fraser River Discover Centre, Hyack Festival Association, New West Family Place, Small Stage, Tourism New West, Queensborough Special Programs Committee, Uptown Business Association, and Uptown Swing Collective.

For a full list of activities and experiences, visit the event website at newwestcity.ca/shinebright.

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Media Contact:

Lisa Kemp
Acting Recreation Supervisor
City of New Westminster
604.515.3827 |