OTTAWA, ON – Parliament Hill is bright with 50,000 red and white lights shining on the building.

It is part of Christmas Lights Across Canada, which started in the capital in 1985.

The illumination ceremony on Thursday evening drew a large crowd – all of which were bundled up, drinking hot chocolate or toasting marshmallows by the bonfire to stay warm.

A student choir sang Christmas carols and premiers from across the country recorded their holiday greetings – while the flags shone on the building.

The Christmas lights were switched on and fireworks went off to mark the moment.

“I like the choreography with the choir this year,” said Amy, who has been coming the past three years. “The fireworks blew me away.”

The lights will shine every night from 4:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.