Requests for illumination dates between January 1 and June 30, 2022, are currently being accepted. The deadline for submission is December 3, 2021 at 4 pm. Eligible requests submitted by the deadline will be processed and scheduled without fee.
ALL illumination requests must be submitted using the online application form fields must be completed unless otherwise indicated. Incomplete submissions, and those requests submitted without a formal application form will be ineligible for consideration.
Please consult the Eligibility Guidelines for details regarding the submission of applications for illumination dates between July 1 and December 31, 2022.
NOTE: Applications submitted outside of these two formal application periods will be considered last-minute requests and will be subject to minimum $250 late programming fee. The City will accommodate last-minute requests to the extent possible pending submission at least five business days in advance of the desired illumination date.
For complete details visit Ottawa.ca
Background
Located at the York Street Plaza in the ByWard Market, with the Peace Tower in its horizon, the OTTAWA sign is a popular attraction for residents and visitors throughout the year. It provides a colourful dynamic landmark for photos, a gathering spot for pedestrians and shoppers and a programming space for small events.
The original OTTAWA sign was installed in May 2017 during Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations. Today, the sign is an Ottawa landmark, attracting hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors from around the world. In 2019, the City of Ottawa, with support from Ottawa Tourism, replaced the original sign with a more permanent and durable structure. The new sign features programmable LED lighting and is illuminated 24 hours a day and 365 days per year.
The City of Ottawa welcomes sign lighting requests through its Community Lighting Program, which celebrates and recognizes not-for-profit and charitable causes and awareness campaigns, festivals and events and sports achievements.
The OTTAWA sign also showcases a variety of default seasonal themes and formal celebrations throughout the year, including:
- Winter – Spring – Summer – Fall
- Valentine’s Day (February 14)
- Canada Day (July 1)
- Halloween (October 31)
- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30)
- Remembrance Day (November 11)
- Holiday Season
- New Year’s Eve (December 31)
Please note that as a result of COVID-19, public health-related measures may result in unexpected changes and cancellations to the illumination schedule.
The fee for standard illuminations is being waived at this time as a result of COVID-19. Fees for customized and last-minute requests remain in effect, as detailed at the top of this post.