Founded in 2019, The White Rock Lights Society is a not-for-profit organization that transforms the White Rock community with lights during the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
The background.
The initial idea for the White Rock Lights Society started from a local resident, Gary Gumley. His inspiration for the 2019 inaugural display came from a childhood memory of growing up in North Wales, when his family would visit the city of Blackpool promenade during the Blackpool Illuminations Festival.
“Hundreds of thousands of lights danced across the waterfront in a sea of moving colours that went on for miles. After emigrating to Canada, I always held that memory with me”
Gary wanted to bring that same seasonal magic to White Rock for the enjoyment of local residents and also for the benefit of Marine Drive businesses. White Rock Lights encourages people to get outside during the non-summer months and to experience the many cultural and community offerings of the White Rock beachfront.
Blackpool Illuminations
White Rock Lights
Core Values.
Community.
We take pride in the opportunity to bring people together. Our cultural celebrations are inclusive of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds.
Celebration.
Our initiatives are created to celebrate the spirit, excitement, and many joys of the holiday season.
Collaboration.
We are grateful for the support of many businesses and individuals in our community. Whenever possible, we involve local cultural or arts organizations in our initiatives.
Culture.
We celebrate the diversity of the holiday season, featuring initiatives for Diwali, Hanukkah, Christmas, Lunar New Year, the Indigenous community, and more.
*We recognize that at this time of significant challenges brought about by Covid-19 that our Core Values by necessity must reflect social distancing and other appropriate health regulations.
Management
Our management is made up of local community members who are deeply committed to the improvement of our city. More than half of our board members are Marine Drive business owners, each with a vested interest in the vitality of the White Rock Waterfront.
Gary Gumley (president)