Kelowna’s Tree of Hope lights up tonight

While classic holiday events have been cancelled this year due to COVID-19 and the requirements to limit gatherings, Kelowna's annual lighting of the Tree of Hope is still a go.

Kelowna's Tree of Hope will brighten the night sky when it is lit at 5 p.m. today, Nov. 26, at 5 p.m., according to theTree of Hope Foundation's Facebook page.

The Tree of Hope has been a focal point in the Landmark District for more than 20 years and its charity foundation is fundraising for the Child Advocacy Centre in Kelowna this year.

It all started back in 1997 with a 160-foot construction crane standing idle next the shell of Landmark 2 Tower.

The idea struck when local developer Al Stober realized his company could not use the crane until after the Christmas season.

“What if we could dangle a giant Christmas tree from the lifting hook of the crane?” Stober said, according to the Tree of Hope Foundation's website.

He drew a little sketch on a napkin at a local restaurant. He showed the drawing to his sons and before they left the restaurant a plan was in place.

By early December 1997, the tree was finished, and the Tree of Hope holiday tradition was born. 

The event is typically accompanied by a holiday market, but this year's light up will look a little different as in-person events are on hold due to orders from the provincial health officer.

For more information on the Tree of Hope, visit its Facebook page.

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