Darkness is coming…for an hour on Saturday. The World Wildlife Fund’s annual Earth Hour is celebrating its ninth anniversary this weekend.
Every year on the last Saturday of March, people and businesses are encouraged to turn off their lights for an hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. to raise awareness about climate change.
Since its inception in Sydney in 2007, the lights-off event has grown into a worldwide movement, with over 120 countries participating.
In addition to the flagship lights-off hour, activities will be held in many cities to celebrate the event.
Here is a list of some events happening in Canadian cities this Earth Hour.
Vancouver
If you like performances by candlelight, head over to the Abdul Ladha Science Student Centre on the UBC’s campus. The event will include dance team performances, singers, spoken word artists, and a photobooth.
Calgary
Come make pretty music via bike-generated power. The family-friendly event at the Olympic Plaza will include LED lantern making, free hot chocolate and foosball.
Saskatoon
Come see Jupiter, Venus and the stars. The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada Saskatoon will be at the Circle Centre Mall, and will have telescopes set up for an ethereal view.
Toronto
Astronomy enthusiasts rejoice. The University of Toronto is hosting a free Astro Tour at the university’s Earth Science Centre, and will include planetary shows, a talk by astronomer and author of Extreme Cosmos Bryan Gaensler and other activities.
Montreal
Bring your flashlights and your mittens, and come skate in the dark at the Atrium le 1000. The event will start at 8 p.m. but it’s recommend that you arrive early. The Atrium so far hasn’t posted a link to this year’s event, however last year’s post has all the relevant information — although remember Earth Hour this year is March 28, not the 29th.
Another event in Montreal is the second annual Choeur des enfants concert. Five choirs will sing by candlelight, with this year’s theme being light and hope.
Fredericton
Science East and The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada will be at Regent Mall from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for free astronomical shows and interactive exhibits.
While not comprehensive, Earth Hour also has an interactive map showing events around the world. If you are hosting an event, make sure to add it to the map.
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