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Thousands of people are expected to head to downtown Cochrane tomorrow for the 40th annual Cochrane Light Up. (File photo)
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The highly anticipated 40th annual Cochrane Light Up event is happening tomorrow (Saturday) evening. From festive lights to free treats, it promises to be a night of magic for the entire community. Here’s everything you need to know:


When and where


The event kicks off at 4:30 PM and runs until 7:30 PM in downtown Cochrane, with a spectacular fireworks finale at the end. Dan McCann, a member of the Cochrane Light Up board says “It’s a great chance to come down and hang out with the community. Downtown's going to look beautiful, and there's been a lot of work put into getting it all lit up.”


Bring a cup for free hot chocolate


One of the event’s highlights is free hot chocolate, but attendees are encouraged to bring their own reusable cups to reduce waste. “We’re making an absolute ton of hot chocolate. We are not going to run out, I can guarantee you that,” says McCann. “Bring your insulated mug, whatever you want and we’ll fill just about anything for you.”

In addition to hot chocolate, there will be free hot dogs for all to enjoy.

light up cochrane christmas holiday event crowd hot cold winter snow
Light Up chair and reindeer Chris Heier beside the tank carrying 3,000 litres of hot chocolate at the 2023 event (file photo).

Downtown closures



Road closures begin at noon on Saturday, so plan accordingly if you need to park downtown.


Weather won’t stop the fun



Cochrane is under a snowfall warning, but Light Up will proceed regardless of the weather. “Snow just adds to the magic of the event,” McCann says.

light up cochrane christmas holiday event crowd hot cold winter snow


Fireworks to wrap up the night



To celebrate the 40th anniversary, the evening will conclude with a fireworks display. “It’s a really great way to button everything up and send everybody on their way in the Christmas spirit,” McCann says.

The fireworks will kickoff around 7:15 p.m. from The Station.

light up cochrane christmas holiday event crowd hot cold winter snow

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