Over the past year, Brock University’s iconic Schmon Tower has illuminated Niagara’s skyline in countless colours of the rainbow.

While most nights the 13-storey landmark building is awash in the University’s signature red, the new LED lighting system has been used to mark a number of occasions with various colour combinations, most recently celebrating Nelson Mandela International Day on July 18.

Community members now have the opportunity to request the Tower lights glow a particular colour in recognition of awareness initiatives and non-commercial events. 

“With the University situated atop the Niagara escarpment, the Tower can be seen from many locations in St. Catharines and Thorold, including as far as Lake Ontario and the Garden City Skyway bridge,” said Dave McArthur, Director, Facilities and Services. “The changing colours will attract the interest of both Niagara residents and visitors and help raise awareness of events and charitable causes.” 

The 48 powerful Philips Color Kinetics LED lights use 10 times less energy than the Tower’s original white ribbon lights and offer a full rainbow of colour options and light show possibilities. 

Already planned for the next two months are red and white lights on Aug. 3 in recognition of Food Day Canada, purple on Aug. 31 for International Overdose Awareness Day, yellow in early September for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and lime green Sept. 15 in recognition of World Lymphoma Awareness Day.

When there isn’t a request to change the colour for a special holiday or initiative, the Tower will continue to be flooded on all four sides in Brock red.

Interested community members can submit a Brock Tower illumination request online.