2nd Annual Parade of Lights to Brighten Downtown Port Coquitlam

News

Port Coquitlam, BC – November 19, 2025… Port Coquitlam is pleased to announce the return of the Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 6 at 5:00 p.m. bringing an expanded and even more vibrant holiday celebration to downtown Port Coquitlam.

“The Parade of Lights is quickly becoming a much-loved part of the holiday season, and this year will be even bigger and better,” said Mayor Brad West. “As families, friends, and neighbours come together, it's a chance to connect, celebrate the Christmas spirit, and enjoy our downtown.”
 
As the first event of its kind in the Tri-Cities, the Parade of Lights showcases a procession of City vehicles, community organizations, local businesses, and walking groups all dressed in festive lights. The parade is highlighted by a special appearance from Santa Claus. The parade begins downtown at 5:00 p.m., offering residents and visitors an engaging and memorable seasonal experience.
 
Those interested in participating in the Parade of Lights can still apply to be part of the procession. Parade entry applications remain open until November 26 and can be submitted online at portcoqutlam.ca/paradeoflights.
 
Pre-Parade Activities in Downtown Port Coquitlam

Families are invited to enjoy free, sponsor-supported activities throughout the afternoon leading up to the parade.
 
NorthStar Development Holiday Activities
 
1:00–5:00 p.m. | Livy & Porthaven Presentation Centre (2630 Shaughnessy Street) & Leigh Square
 
Thanks to the support of NorthStar Development, residents and visitors can enjoy:

  • Complimentary hot cocoa
  • Photos with Santa
  • A walk-in snow globe experience
  • An inflatable Santa sleigh photo opportunity
  • Winter-themed games
  • The NorthStar Express mini holiday train travelling between Leigh Square and Veterans Park
“The Parade of Lights has quickly become a cornerstone of our Winter in the City programming,” said Councillor Paige Petriw, council designate for events. “The energy downtown, the community pride, and the partnership from local organizations help make this event something special for all ages.”

Skating and Family Activities at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre (PCCC)

Families can enjoy pre and post-parade activities at PCCC. Pre-registration opens two days in advance for residents (8:00 a.m.) and for non-residents (10:00 a.m.). Register at portcoquitlam.ca/register or call 604-927-7529. Day-of registration available if space permits.
 
  • Family Play & Skate: 4:30–5:30 p.m. (before the parade).
  • Free Public Skate: 6:00–7:00 p.m.
  • Complimentary hot chocolate, festive treats, and holiday-themed arts and crafts and a movie in the Mabbett Hall from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Parade Route

The Parade of Lights will begin at PCCC, travelling:
  • West on Kelly Avenue
  • North on Shaughnessy Street
  • East on McAllister Avenue
  • South on Mary Hill Road
  • Returning to Kelly Avenue.
A full map is available at portcoqutlam.ca/paradeoflights.

The Parade of Lights is part of Port Coquitlam’s Winter in the City program, offering numerous opportunities for residents and visitors to connect and celebrate the holiday season.


Traffic Information and Road Closures

Road closures will be in effect on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.:
 
  • Shaughnessy St. – Kelly Ave. to McAllister Ave.
  • Leigh Square Pl. – east of Shaughnessy St.
  • Donald St. – Wilson Ave. to McAllister Ave.
  • Whyte Ave. at Shaughnessy St.
  • McAllister Ave. – east of Shaughnessy St. to Mary Hill Rd.
  • McAllister Ave. – west of Shaughnessy St. to the southbound alleyway
  • Mary Hill Road closed between McAllister Ave. to Kelly Ave.
  • Wilson Ave. between Shaughnessy and Mary Hill Road.
  • Parkade to PCCC off of Kelly Ave. will be closed during this time. Access available off of Kingsway Ave.
Detours available:
  • Wilson Ave. (east of Mary Hill Road and West of Shaughnessy St.)
  • Mary Hill Rd. – Wilson Ave. to Kingsway Ave.
  • Maple St. – Kingsway Ave. to Wilson Ave.
  • Kingsway Ave. – Mary Hill Rd. to Maple St.
  • Shaughnessy Underpass – open at Elgin Ave. west/east
  • Local access to Marpole Ave., Whyte Ave., McAllister Ave. and Elgin Ave. via Maple St.
Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead and consider using transit, walking, or cycling. Free parking is available in a variety of areas in the downtown:
  • PCCC
  • Gates Park
  • Legion Branch #133 (Elgin Ave. and Kingsway Ave.)
  • Kingsway Avenue at Mary Hill Road
Additional Holiday Events and Activities
 
The Parade of Lights is part of Winter in the City, a collection of seasonal activities offered throughout November and December:
  • Christmas Tree Festival (Nov. 29–Dec. 21) – downtownpocobia.com
  • 12 Days of Christmas Campaign – Launches Dec. 1
  • Holiday Family Movie: Frozen Sing-Along – Dec. 13
  • CPKC Holiday Train featuring Barenaked Ladies – Dec. 20
  • Holiday Skates & Winter Programs – Dec. 20, 2025 to Jan. 4, 2026
  • Holiday Workshops – lantern-making, theatre sports, wreaths, clayware and more.
Details and registration: portcoquitlam.ca/register
 
Sponsors
 
The City gratefully acknowledges the generous support of:

Presenting Activation Sponsor
  • NorthStar Development
Bronze Sponsor
  • Global BC – Media Sponsor
Community Sponsors
  • OpenRoad
Leigh Square Tree Lights:
  • NorthStar Development
  • Port Coquitlam Business Improvement Association (PoCo BIA)
For more information, visit portcoquitlam.ca/winterinthecity for full event details.

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