You can't attend the Christmas tree lighting at the Eaton Centre this year

The tallest Christmas tree in Canada is returning to the Toronto Eaton Centre this holiday season.

The massive, 108-foot-tall tree will be lit on November 18—but, unlike years past, the festive event won’t be open to the public.

Instead, the iconic tree will be lit during a private media celebration that will feature a yet-to-be-named special guest, Cadillac Fairview announced on Thursday.

When contacted by Daily Hive, the company did not specify why the event was closed to the public.

A digital tree-lighting was held in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while the 2019 ceremony was hosted by tennis superstar Bianca Andreescu.

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This holiday season, Cadillac Fairview is also launching a new augmented reality tree-decorating experience at three of its malls across Ontario, including the Eaton Centre.

The aptly named CF Holiday AR Tree Decorator will allow shoppers to adorn Christmas trees with virtual, customized ornaments using their smartphones.

For every ornament added to a tree, Cadillac Fairview said it will make a donation to a local charity. In addition to the Eaton Centre, the experience is also coming to Markville Mall and Ottawa’s Rideau Centre.

“It’s undeniable that this season is looking a little brighter than last,” said Andrea Nickel, Director of Customer Experience and Marketing Communications at Cadillac Fairview.

“This year, we’re thrilled to help our communities safely rediscover that holiday feeling filled with wonder, togetherness, and hope.”