Lumiere FAQ

Paper lanterns and candles – is this festival safe?
Last year I missed seeing some of the performers, why do you not have a performer schedule?
Do I have to pay to go to Lumière?
That large light at the field house ruins the atmosphere. Can you turn it off?
Can I bring my dog/cat/ferret?
Can I buy food at the festival?
I want to make a lantern; can I make one at the festival?
Will my teenager, grandfather, or mother enjoy Lumière or is it just for kids?
I came last year and was shocked that the festival was so crowded. Are you doing anything to make it less crowded?

Paper lanterns and candles – is this festival safe?

We only use tea lights in Lumière lanterns and these are put inside foil trays or small jars. We also ensure that the frame of the lantern is a safe distance from the candle.

The larger installations are lit by battery operated and LED lights as we cannot relight these during the festival.

Prior to the event we meet with members of the City of Ottawa, and the police and fire department. At the festival, St.John’s Ambulance and Pathway patrol are on site to help with any medical situations.

Last year I missed seeing some of the performers, why do you not have a performer schedule?

Lumière is all about transformation and magic - we want you to come for a walk in the park and be surprised to find a singer in the trees or a fire spinner in the playground. Also, there are over 100 performers so chances are you will not get to see everyone!

In 2008, we will be letting you know the times and the line up of the two finales so that you do not miss the spectacular fire performances.

Do I have to pay to go to Lumière?

Lumière is a by donation event – while you do not have to purchase tickets, we really need you to be generous and donate at the donation locations (the main two are located at the St. Patrick’s Bridge and at the Stanley Park field house). If you cannot find these locations please ask a volunteer to direct you. As a non-profit event, we RELY on your financial support.

That large light at the field house ruins the atmosphere. Can you turn it off?

No, the large light illuminated the field house and the children’s play ground. This is the festival safety centre for first aid, access to water and washrooms, the performer and volunteer room, and the location of the lost child station.

Can I bring my dog/cat/ferret?

No, no and no!!! Lumière can be crowded and loud. There are fire performers, people in masks and freaky costumes, children everywhere, and there are lanterns with candles placed on the ground. Pets do not enjoy this event.

Can I buy food at the festival?

Yes – Lumière caterers are all from our community and put a lot of effort into their Lumière menu. We invite you to come and enjoy an Italian BBQ, special Lumière cookies and Bridgehead coffee.

I want to make a lantern; can I make one at the festival?

At the festival we have a free children’s lantern making table where children can make their own small lanterns.

To make a balloon, star, moon or other more elaborate lantern you can attend one of our many lantern-making workshops. These lanterns need to dry overnight so that last lantern-making workshop will be on August 7th. Lanterns cost between $5-$25 and make between 20 min-2.5 hrs.

Will my teenager, grandfather, or mother enjoy Lumière or is it just for kids?

Lumière organizers work hard to make this festival an event for all ages. We have lanterns that are beautiful, classical, and funky, and that appeal to everyone. Our performers are so diverse that everybody can find something they are enthralled with!

I came last year and was shocked that the festival was so crowded. Are you doing anything to make it less crowded?

In 2008, we are starting the event at 5pm, and encouraging families with younger children to come from 5-8 pm. We have designed a family finale so the little ones do not miss out on the awesome fire display. We have also extended the route so to spread everybody out along the path.