It’s lights out at Toronto’s Royal York

Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York hotel will turn off its lights and light up more than a 1,000 candles in support of the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF), annual Earth Hour. Guests will have the opportunity to partake in this global initiative by participating in the hotel’s “Green”inspired activities when the lights go out for 60 minutes beginning at 8:30 p.m. on March 31. At that time, The Fairmont Royal York’s neon rooftop sign will go dark, signalling the hotel’s “Green Team”to power down the exterior awning and canopy lights in unison with millions of Earth Hour participants worldwide. Inside the hotel, the volunteer team of more than 30 eco-minded colleagues will light candelabras and hundreds of tea lights are to be placed throughout the lobby and pool area of the hotel for Earth Hour. The hotel’s health club invites guests to experience relaxation in a different light. They will unwind in the hotel’s whirlpool or swim in the pool, illuminated by the glow of surrounding candles. The special candlelight swim is offered exclusively to hotel guests from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on March 31. Guests are also encouraged to participate in the environmental activities by turning the lights out in their rooms by way of a WWF bookmark accompanying their key cards and at the evening “turndown.”Guests residing in the GTA who want to turn an Earth Hour into a full night may take advantage of the hotel’s Earth Hour rate exclusive offer. This rate includes a one-night stay in a Fairmont guestroom starting from $119 per night (exclusive of taxes and gratuities). The Earth Hour locals rate requires a non-refundable one-night deposit and is only available on March 31. Proof of GTA or regional residency must be provided at check-in. (http://www.fairmont.com/RoyalYork)