Pharos Architectural Controls, a British manufacturer of dynamic lighting controls, played a central role in the centenary celebrations of nightly illuminations at Niagara Falls, providing additional control technology for a special series of light and sound shows between 12-14 September 2025.
Since 2020, Pharos systems have managed the landmark’s lighting. For the anniversary, the Niagara Falls Illumination Board (NFIB) introduced a new element: a son et lumière presentation combining synchronised lighting and audio for the first time.
Lighting and sound in harmony
For the celebrations, Pharos lent a Designer LPC X controller to complement the existing system. The LPC X enabled audio playback alongside lighting, allowing the programming of music and effects on shared timelines for precise synchronisation.
The shows began with the national anthems of Canada and the USA, followed by a short history of the NFIB and the evolution of illumination technology. A 20-minute musical sequence then combined LED lighting with laser projections on Goat Island.
The Pharos controller also managed four laser projectors integrated with the Pangolin Beyond Laser system, supported by ruggedised fibre connections and extended networking infrastructure.
A 2,000-foot PA system carried sound across the park, with monitoring provided via the SixEye cloud platform.
A large video screen and PA system on the US side ensured audiences could also follow the event.
Collaboration and integration
Pathway Connectivity, specialists in DMX network systems, coordinated installation and integration, while lighting consultant Linus MacDonald supported the programming of the events.
Michael Grosse, Regional Sales Manager for the Americas at Pharos Architectural Controls, says, “Niagara Falls is one of the most famous global landmarks, both in scale and visual appeal, to use our products.
“To know a system from Pharos is illuminating one of the most visited sites in the world every evening gives you a huge sense of pride. We were honoured to provide the technology to make these centenary celebrations happen.”
Robert Bell of Pathway Connectivity adds, “The Pharos Designer LPC has been integral to the success of the illuminations of Niagara Falls since we upgraded the system in 2020. We were therefore delighted that Pharos supported the anniversary celebrations with the loan of an LPC X.”
The NFIB, which organised the celebrations, has overseen the nightly lighting of Niagara Falls since 1925. The first system comprised 24 arc lights, originally developed as wartime searchlights. Today, modern LED systems provide more sustainable and flexible illumination for the landmark.
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