For the second year in a row, the Aberdeen Plaza in Lansdowne Park, right in the heart of Ottawa’s Glebe neighbourhood, is home to a 40-foot canopy of animated LEDs that inspire awe as they ripple, glow, and twinkle.
The Celebright Twinkle Tunnel—an immersive light experience, is designed not just to dazzle, but to spark something deeper: connection and conversation around mental health.
Originally unveiled as part of the Ottawa Christmas Market in 2024, the Twinkle Tunnel has quickly become a must-see stop for families, couples, and friends looking for that perfect holiday moment (and yes, an amazing photo op,#TwinkleTunnel).
Whether you or a loved one are dealing with mental health challenges, it can be daunting to know where to go for support. The Twinkle Tunnel is a first step in demystifying important conversations around mental health resources and local programs.
During the holidays, it can be especially hard to navigate, amidst seasonal stress, financial pressure, loneliness, grief, and the dark winter days.
In partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Ottawa and community partners including Ottawa Public Health, CHEO Foundation, and the OSEG Foundation, we’re using a joyful, accessible public space to:
As CMHA Ottawa has noted, the Tunnel highlights community-based programs and services at a time of year when many people feel the weight of seasonal stress and loneliness.
Through signs and information in and around the Tunnel, visitors can learn about resources like CMHA Ottawa’s services and regional pathways like AccessMHA, which connects people to mental health and substance use supports in Eastern Ontario.
As an Ottawa-based company, many of us live, work, and raise our families in and around the National Capital Region. Bringing the Twinkle Tunnel to the Ottawa Christmas Market is our way of giving something meaningful back to our community.
“Strong communities are built on support, understanding, and the courage to talk openly about mental health."
- Dan Junkins (CEO & Founder)
It has been an absolute pleasure to be able to:
Kim McLean, Senior Manager, Community Impact & Engagement at the OSEG Foundation shares,
"The Twinkle Tunnel is an incredible reminder of how important it is to shine light on mental health. At the OSEG Foundation, we know how vital these supports are for youth and families, and this activation is a meaningful step toward strengthening pathways to care."
- Kim Mclean (Senior Manager)
Light is at the core of who we are as a company—but it’s also a powerful symbol. Light is not just something we see, it shapes our mood, well-being, and sense of place and belonging. It shifts with seasons, moods, and moments, reflecting the full spectrum of human experience.
We shine brighter when we shine together. You are not alone.