NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WBEN)....In a rarely seen sight and 101-year history of the Niagara Falls Illumination Board, different color schemes lit up the Canadian and American falls respectively.
Why?
In a binational nod and a show of local respect, the falls, on May 5th, were illuminated in both Montreal Canadiens' red-white and blue color scheme on the Canadian side and Buffalo Sabres' blue-and-gold on the American Horseshoe falls.
The illumination came on the eve of the Sabres-Habs NHL playoff series that begins Wednesday night.
"There was no hesitation by anyone on either side," said Angela Berti, a board member and incoming 2027 chairperson.
The decision was made on May 4th, just a few hours after the Canadiens beat the Tampa Bay Lightning - setting up the showdown with the Sabres.
Berti said the decision only covered the May 5th light show, but don't be surprised if it happens again as the series progresses.
"We are definitely considering it," Berti said.
The light show not only pays homage to the Sabres-Habs series, it may also help attract more visitors to both sides of Niagara Falls.
"That is our hope that it can be a draw," Berti said. "It (two different light schemes) is something we do a lot."
Binational board sides with both Buffalo and Montreal
Binational board sides with both Buffalo and Montreal
