A part of Burrard Street is glowing bright with thousands of lights as part of the 23rd annual Lights of Hope holiday festival.
It's a tradition that’s been held outside St. Paul’s Hospital since 1998, one seeking to help Vancouver patients and caregivers in need during the holiday season.
“Taking a page from Dr. Bonnie Henry, we’ve re-imagined Lights of Hope this year as Hope at Home – and we hope you’ll join us in our time-honoured holiday traditions, adjusted so we can celebrate together, while apart,” said festival organizers.
Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the display is available for viewers to watch from the safety of their homes, thanks to a 24/7 live-stream.
The installation – set up at 1081 Burrard St. – lit up for this first time this year on Nov. 19.
![Martha Perkins](https://www.vmcdn.ca/f/files/via/images/events/martha-perkins.jpg;w=960)
Lights of Hope is part of a fundraiser that supports patients in need, including residents and caregivers at St. Paul’s, Mount Saint Joseph’s Hospital, and Providence Health Care’s long-term care facilities.
Passersby can choose a donation amount, tap their debit card to donate, and help keep hope alive for the patients of St. Paul’s. Those interested can also purchase a limited edition Hope at Home star lantern to show support for Lights of Hope from home (the lantern is accompanied with string fairy lights and a battery pack) or donate online.
![Martha Perkins2](https://www.vmcdn.ca/f/files/via/images/events/martha-perkins2.jpg;w=960)
The display’s “Living Light” shines brightly when donations are made, and it fades when it goes without support.
Since its inception, the hospital fundraiser has raised more than $40 million, supporting the purchase of much-needed medical equipment, research, and teaching.
This year’s display of stars will glow until Jan. 4.