This weekend, the City of Surrey hosted its 14th annual Surrey tree lighting festival and holiday market in Civic Plaza.
The free festival, held Saturday (Nov. 23) and Sunday (Nov. 24), featured live entertainment from more than 50 performers, amusement rides, food trucks and more.
The City of Surrey says an estimated 25,000 people filled the plaza, where the tree will stay lit until Jan. 2.
“I was thrilled to see the community come together in such large numbers to celebrate the spirit of the season at the 14th annual Surrey Tree Lighting Festival & Holiday Market,” Mayor Brenda Locke said in a news release Monday (Nov. 25). “It’s heartwarming to witness the joy and unity among families, friends, and neighbours, all while supporting our local artisans and businesses. This festival embodies the true essence of the holidays—generosity, celebration, and love for our community.”
Vancouver-based Olympic gold-medal breakdancer Philip Kim, better known as Phil Wizard, also made an appearance on Saturday. Kim did a breakdancing demonstration at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 on the "North Pole Stage" in City Hall.
The official tree lighting ceremony took place on the "Snowflake Stage" Saturday evening with the Mayor and council.
Concord Pacific and Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society hosted a toy drive to benefit the Surrey Christmas Bureau and help families in need.
On Saturday, The mayor presented the Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society (SFFCS) with a cheque for $705,258. The funds will support Surrey firefighters' community programs, including nutritional snacks for schoolchildren.
-With files from Tom Zillich