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 illuminated in orange
Saamis Tepee
Located along the Trans-Canada Highway
Towne Square lit up at night
Towne Square
Situated in the heart of downtown

Apply now

Guidelines

Application process

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
Eligibility

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.

Fees

Saamis Tepee:

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

Towne Square:

  • $50 per day (minimum) or $150 per week 
Duration of lighting
Lighting time can span a duration from one day up to one week.
Evaluation

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.

Lighting Schedule

Saamis Tepee:

April 27 - May3, 2025
BLUE & PURPLE
Root Cellar and Wellness Hub
To honour volunteers in our community during National Volunteer Week. This year's theme is “Volunteers Make Waves".

May 16, 2025
GREEN
Calgary Celiac Association
On May 16, the international Celiac community comes together to #ShineALightOnCeliac by lighting iconic buildings all over the world green in honour of Celiac Awareness Day. One in 100 people worldwide are affected by Celiac Disease, an autoimmune condition with no cure except a lifestyle change that excludes gluten from their diet. As a chapter of Celiac Canada, the Calgary Celiac Association is the local voice for people adversely affected by gluten, serving our community through programs of awareness, advocacy, community events, education and research.

May 18-24, 2025
YELLOW
Core Association
May 18-24 is Disability Services Professionals Appreciation Week. This is a professionally declared week-long celebration of the Albertans that dedicate their professional lives to empowering and supporting people with disabilities.

Towne Square:

May 12, 2025
YELLOW & GREEN
Environmental Health Association of Canada
May 12 is observed as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) Awareness Day to highlight the challenges faced by individuals with MCS. The day aims to increase public understanding, advocate for recognition, and foster support for those living with MCS. It encourages the promotion of safer environments, inclusivity, and research to improve diagnostics and treatments for MCS. Overall, MCS Awareness Day plays a crucial role in addressing misconceptions and bias, advocating for policy changes, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by Multiple Chemical Sensitivity.