Lighting For a Cause

The City of Medicine Hat's Lighting for a Cause program is an initiative designed to bolster community spirit while shining a light on important social causes.

Aligning with City Council's Strategic Plan, this unique program has three core objectives:
  • Promote awareness of meaningful social causes
  • Foster community spirit
  • Cultivate a sense of belonging

Together, we can brighten the lives of residents!

The City has two venues available to book. Rent one or both to promote your event/cause.

Saamis Tepee

Located along the Trans-Canada Highway

Towne Square

Situated in the heart of downtown

Guidelines

To be considered, all requests must be:

  • received via on-line application of the ‘Lighting for a Cause’ request form
  • completed by a management representative of the official organization making the request
  • received by the Community Development Department at least 30 days in advance of lighting date requested

Lighting will be considered for:

  • nondenominational events/causes
  • nonpolitical events/causes
  • registered charitable and not-for-profit events/causes

Lighting cannot be considered for:

  • personal occasions (e.g., birthdays, anniversaries)
  • political events or observances
  • religious figures, events, organizations or institutions
  • commercial requests (i.e., product launches, corporate events, advertising)

The City of Medicine Hat reserves the right to use discretion when determining if a cause is deemed eligible.

Saamis Tepee:

  • $100 per day (minimum) or $250 per week 

Towne Square:

  • $50 per day (minimum) or $150 per week 

Lighting time can span a duration from one day up to one week.

An approval of any illumination is at the sole discretion of the City of Medicine Hat and not subject to appeals or negotiation.

All requests will be evaluated based on meeting the above-mentioned guidelines as well as:

  • the nature of the cause
  • history and background of the organization, cause or event
  • how the lighting will be used to benefit the cause or event
  • marketing plan to educate the public on why Tepee is illuminated in colour

Applicants will receive an email response stating whether or not an application has been approved. Due to the high volume of applications, not all requests may be accommodated. Applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications may be submitted up to six months in advance.

The City of Medicine Hat wishes to stress that if an application is declined, it is not a reflection of the merits or importance of any requests.

If after reading the guidelines you are still uncertain if your project is eligible, please contact the Lighting for a Cause program administrator for clarity and assistance.

Apply now

Lighting schedule

Saamis Tepee

January 19-25, 2026 MULTI-COLOUR

Medicine Hat Folk Music Club

The Saamis Tepee will be lit to represent Tie-Dye promoting the Tongue on the Post Folk Music Festival and its amazing volunteers who help make music magic! Visit mhfolkmusic.com for the latest details.

February 5, 2026 PURPLE

Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta

The Saamis Tepee will be lit purple to recognize Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2026. Learn more by visiting edsna.ca.

February 11, 2026 RED

211 Alberta

February 11 is National 211 Day. Landmarks across Canada are lighting up red to support visibility of 211 Day and raise awareness of the importance of this service in our community. Learn more at ab.211.ca.

April 11, 2026 BLUE

Parkinson Association of Alberta

As part of SPARK THE NIGHT, cities around the world will partner with local leaders to illuminate buildings and iconic landmarks in blue, symbolizing support for Parkinson’s disease. Our goal is to light 12 million blue lights—one for each of the more than 12 million people living with Parkinson’s worldwide.

World Parkinson's Night is an annual global event that unites communities worldwide to raise awareness, support, and solidarity for those living with Parkinson's disease. This inspiring gathering serves as a beacon of hope, bringing together individuals, caregivers, advocates, and healthcare professionals in a shared mission to empower and uplift the Parkinson’s community. Learn more at: parkinsonassociation.ca.

Towne Square

February 5, 2026 PURPLE

Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta

Towne Square will be lit purple to recognize Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2026. Learn more by visiting edsna.ca.

February 11, 2026 RED

211 Alberta

February 11 is National 211 Day. Landmarks across Canada are lighting up red to support visibility of 211 Day and raise awareness of the importance of this service in our community. Learn more at ab.211.ca.

April 11, 2026 BLUE

Parkinson Association of Alberta

As part of SPARK THE NIGHT, cities around the world will partner with local leaders to illuminate buildings and iconic landmarks in blue, symbolizing support for Parkinson’s disease. Our goal is to light 12 million blue lights—one for each of the more than 12 million people living with Parkinson’s worldwide.

World Parkinson's Night is an annual global event that unites communities worldwide to raise awareness, support, and solidarity for those living with Parkinson's disease. This inspiring gathering serves as a beacon of hope, bringing together individuals, caregivers, advocates, and healthcare professionals in a shared mission to empower and uplift the Parkinson’s community. Learn more at: parkinsonassociation.ca.

Contact Us

Lighting For a Cause

401 1 St SE
Medicine Hat, Alberta
T1A 8W2
403-502-8580
Email us