Illuminations

Special Illuminations of the Samuel De Champlain Bridge

The Samuel De Champlain Bridge comes alive every evening, illuminated from sunset to 1:00 a.m. Its cutting-edge architectural lighting system features over 7,500 light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs, capable of creating a stunning array of static or dynamic lighting scenarios.

Under the direction of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada, the Signature on the Saint Lawrence Group programs these lighting displays based on various operational, social, and environmental criteria.

By highlighting the majestic form and contours of the bridge, the architectural lighting enhances its emblematic character and iconic presence. In harmony with its surroundings, the lighting also represents a spirit of unity—a coming together of the community.

Base illumination scenarios

Since opening to traffic in the summer of 2019, the Samuel De Champlain Bridge has been illuminated according to the following baseline scenarios:

White lighting: The default illumination, with intensity carefully controlled to minimise impacts on maritime traffic or communities around the bridge. This setting was developed in consultation with the project’s Visual Quality Advisory Committee, Environment and Climate Change Canada and the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation.

Blue and green lighting—Used during bird migration periods, from March 1 to June 15 and from August 1 to November 20. These colours are less attractive to birds, helping to reduce the risk of collision with bridge structures. They were chosen following consultations with Environment and Climate Change Canada and Quebec’s Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs.

Special Illumination Calendar Schedule 2026

Throughout the year, a number of annual or special lighting scenarios will mark specific dates or events of significance to Quebecers, Canadians an the international community. These illuminations are based on the calendar of National celebrations, other special events, and reflect the mandate and priorities of the Government of Canada.

*Subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances

Special Illuminations during migratory bird period

During the bird migration period, from March 1 to June 15 and from August 1 to November 20, the bridge will be lit for 60 to 90 minutes per event, unless otherwise approved. Apart from special illuminations, the preset colors will be green and blue to avoid disturbing the flight pattern of birds. Colors will be visible from sunset until 1 a.m.

Criteria for accepting a special illumination request on the Samuel De Champlain Bridge

Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada will consider suggestions which must be received at least two months before the special illumination date. The suggestions will be evaluated against several criteria, including:

• The proposed illumination is safe for vehicular traffic and for the environment;
• The event/cause is non-political and non-commercial;
• The event/cause does not promote hate, is not vulgar nor offensive; and
• The event/cause is of great interest to more than one group or community or supports a national or international awareness issue that strengthens the community.

Special illumination requests will be processed on a first come, first serve basis. Suggestions for days that already have a special illumination as per the calendar above will not be considered.

• Special illuminations will be limited to one night per event.
• Health-related illuminations are chosen in consultation with Health Canada once per year given the high volume of such requests. As such, special requests for Physical or Mental Health-related illuminations will not be accepted.
• A memorial illumination will be held on the evening of all National Funerals or equivalent ceremonies authorized by the Government of Quebec or the Government of Canada.
• No request will be accepted for a special illumination during an electoral period.
• There is no fee to the requester for special illumination requests and accepted displays.

How to request a special illumination on the Samuel De Champlain Bridge

To submit your lighting request, please send an email to [email protected] with the following details:

• Contact’s name
• Organization and cause
• Website
• Email address
• Telephone number
• Details about the request (Description of cause, coordination with other structures)
• Day(s) of requested illumination
• Colours requested (static or dynamic)

Due to the high volume of requests received, only the requestors for suggestions that have been accepted and approved will be contacted and provided with further details.