Iconic landmark energizes Christmas spirit in Kelowna

Back to signal the start of the holiday season and bring inspiration to Kelowna, the Tree of Hope is now in full glory at Landmark Plaza.

Mayor Colin Basran and his family were given the honours of lighting up the 120-foot-tall installation, now illuminated brightly along Harvey Ave.

“I just think the light-up comes at a really good time. I think we could all use some Christmas cheer,” Basran told Kelowna10.

“Driving by the tree is just a nice little reminder to smile and remember that, as difficult as things have been, we have a lot to be grateful for.”

This being the 24th anniversary of the tree, there’s an extra sparkle in the air when hope and inspiration is highly appreciated amid the ongoing pandemic, economic struggles, and recent natural disasters.

In partnership with the tenants of Landmark District, TD Canada Trust, and the Stober Family Foundation, the Tree of Hope donates funds each year to local charitable organizations that seek to help marginalized populations, enhance community development, and address complex social issues facing our community.

This year, the foundation’s goal is to help at-risk women by partnering with the Now Canada Society and Karis Support Society.

To date, over $1 million has been donated to charities within the community. Organizers hope the generosity will continue.

The idea for the tree began with a 160-foot construction crane standing idle next to the completed shell of the Landmark 2 Tower in 1997.

The idea struck when Al Stober realized his company could not use the crane until after the Christmas season. “What if we could dangle a giant Christmas tree from the lifting hook of the crane?” Al asked.

He drew a little sketch on a napkin at a local restaurant. He showed the drawing to his sons, Ken and Mark, and before they left the restaurant, a plan was in place.

By early December that year, the tree was finished; a glowing reminder of the spirit of the Christmas season. And so was born the tradition of the Tree of Hope at the Landmark District.

Next year marks a quarter century for the tree.

The Stober Group has big plans for the milestone and the opening of the Landmark 7 building and completion of Tree of Hope Plaza.