Winnipeg's mayor wants the city to go dark for one hour this spring, as part of Earth Hour, a global event being held to symbolize commitment to fighting climate change.

The City of Winnipeg will officially participate in the March 29 event, Mayor Sam Katz announced Wednesday.

"I challenge all Winnipeggers to turn off their lights for Earth Hour and show their support by engaging in this global issue," Katz said in a release.

"This symbolic gesture offers an incredible opportunity to educate our youth about the importance of environmental stewardship and preserving our environment."

Civic buildings on Main Street will turn out their lights between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. CT that Thursday night.

Lights in police headquarters, the civic and library parkades and the downtown skywalk will stay on for safety reasons, officials said.

Last March, Sydney, Australia dimmed its skyline when residents, businesses and the local government took part in the first Earth Hour event, which asked people to think about cutting their energy use.

Cities taking part in this year's event, organized by the World Wildlife Foundation, include Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Vancouver, as well as Tel Aviv, Copenhagen, Phoenix and Chicago.