The Falls were lit for the first time in 1860 with 200 lights like those used to signal for help at sea

Niagara Falls at night

The light beams emanate from banks of spotlights on the Canadian side of the Falls, lighting up the Horseshoe and American Falls that, along with the Bridal Veil Falls, make up the bi-national tourist attraction.

Efficient LED lighting being unveiled on Thursday will provide brighter and more robust color than the halogen technology

The Falls were lit for the first time in 1860 with 200 lights like those used to signal for help at sea. Electricity was first used in 1879. The Illumination Tower where most of the lights are located was built in 1899.