Nikka Yuko Bright Lights welcome in the New Year

Day noted that in the Japanese culture, light is used in celebrations, remembrance of loss and to bring good energy. She noted the local Japanese community and its history, and the fact that the festival gives recognition to what that culture has added to the Southern Alberta landscape.

“It again reminds people of the importance of Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden – we (the garden) are turning 50 years old next year and there will be a 50th anniversary, and what a way to start it, to be able to enhance that cultural piece in the winter time.”

Planning for the Nikka Yuko garden began several years before Canada’s Centennial in 1967, to recognize contributions made by those of Japanese ancestry to Southern Alberta, and Lethbridge in particular. It was opened in July of 1967 as a symbol of international friendship. The name was created from the Japanese words Ni (from Nihon meaning Japan), ka from Kanada or Canada, and Yuko, which means “friendship” to formulate “Japan-Canada friendship”.

According to Day, Nikka Yuko hired additional staff to set up the massive light display, which had to be accomplished with great care to the horticultural elements in the garden and ensuring there was no damage to shrubs any other features. More than 600 man-hours of work went into the display, which was four to six staff working full-time over four weeks.

The plan is to have the Nikka Yuko Winter Lights Festival annually for the next five years with a specific focus on the garden’s 50th anniversary in 2017.

This year’s Festival of Light opened December 2nd and will fun until February 2nd. It will be open at 7:00-pm Thursday through Saturday for most weeks. However, residents are encouraged to check the Nikka Yuko website for notification of specific blackout nights or potential rescheduling.

Additional information can be obtained by calling the visitor centre at 403-328-3511.

The Garden has kept the admission low to accommodate families. Admission is $5 per person or $15 for a family of four, and those aged 5-years and under are free. Enmax Concession will be on sight to offer warm drinks and other treats.

Residents are encouraged to bring family and friends who may be visiting from out of town over the holiday.

by Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter)

Nikka Yuko Bright Lights welcome in the New Year

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