Holiday light festivals in Ontario 2023
Winter Festival of Lights | Niagara Falls Tourism
From the illumination of Niagara Falls to stunning Christmas light displays and downtown tree lighting ceremonies, all corners of Ontario shine bright at these annual light festivals.
Plan a winter road trip, weekend getaway or evening visit with your friends or family to one of these magical destinations to celebrate the holiday cheer. Don’t miss booking in advance for ticketed events, since many of them sell out fast.
Ottawa
Magic of Lights in Ottawa
Follow the drive-through route in Wesley Clover Parks just southeast of downtown Ottawa to a festive wonderland featuring thousands of mesmerizing lights that celebrate the joy of the holidays.
Details: save time and money and purchase tickets online in advance
When: November 17, 2023–January 6, 2024
Where: 411 Corkstown Road, Ottawa
Christmas Lights Across Canada
Just when we thought Ottawa couldn’t get any prettier, thousands of lights sparkle, shine and reflect off the winter landscape of our nation’s capital illuminating historic sites, parks and streets. Take in the enchanting display, including the free multimedia show on Parliament Hill. Find the perfect place to stay and make it a festive getaway in Canada’s capital.
Details: this is a free event
When: December 7, 2023–January 7, 2024
Where: throughout downtown Ottawa
Southeastern Ontario
Enchanted Festival of Lights in Belleville
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Belleville with light installations, local shopping and seasonal window displays, dining and selfies in the giant Santa Chair. The light displays, along with sounds of the holiday will follow a route through downtown, along the waterfront to Keegan Parkway at Herchimer Avenue.
Details: free event, ample parking available in the downtown core
When: November 17–December 18, 2023
Where: downtown Belleville
Brockville River of Lights
Tune your car radio to 88.1 FM to hear the festive mix of contemporary and classic holiday music that will accompany the dazzling holiday light display featured in a nightly drive-thru tour of Blockhouse Island Parkway.
Details: this is a free event
When: November 25, 2023–January 2, 2024; light and sound show nightly from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.; static light show 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 to 11:00 p.m., weather permitting
Where: Blockhouse Island Parkway at the base of Market Street West at Water Street, Brockville
Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village
Over one million lights adorn the heritage buildings, trees and fences at this scenic living-history site, eastern Ontario’s largest light show. Wander the recreated 1866 pioneer village, enjoy festive Christmas music and treat yourself to a delicious BeaverTail pastry.
Details: tickets available online, $17+ HST per person (ages 13+), $14+HST for youth ages 5 to 12; Accessible nights will be available December 5, 12 and 19, 2023 (bookings are available online)
When: December 1, 2023–January 6, 2024, select dates 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Niagara Region
Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights
Niagara Falls’ beloved winter tradition of spectacular light displays millions of visitors each year. With over three million twinkling lights along the Niagara Parkway alone, an enchanting winter fireworks series, a full calendar of entertainment and the opportunity to get a photo with Santa, it’s no wonder that the Christmas lights in Niagara Falls are known around the world. Warm up on the hot chocolate trail as you enjoy a self-guided holiday light tour.. Make it a getaway to remember and book an overnight stay in one of Niagara’s accommodations overlooking the falls.
Details: Canada’s largest free light festival
When: November 18, 2023–January 7, 2024
Where: Downtown Niagara Falls
Safari Lights
Experience an exclusive three kilometre drive-thru adventure, where there’s lots to see. Enjoy immersive light tunnels, motion lights, whimsical animal displays and more.
When: November 17, 2023–January 7, 2024.
Where: Safari Niagara, 2821 Stevensville Road, Stevensville.
Details: Advance tickets on sale now starting at $19.95. Purchase tickets online.
Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square
Toronto's Nathan Phillips Square transforms into an annual winter wonderland complete with spectacular light installations, DJ music ice skating party, ice sculptures, live entertainment and an enormous, decorated Christmas tree. Book a centrally-located Toronto hotel to serve as your home base as you explore all the city has to offer this season.
Details: this is a free event
When: November 25, 2023–January 7, 2024
Where: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto
Casa Loma Holiday Lights
Marvel at the elaborate holiday light displays on a stroll around Casa Loma's gardens and tunnels. Live music performances will keep you in the holiday spirit.
Details: December 1 to December 17, tickets are $45 online or $50 onsite; December 18 to January 6, tickets are $50 online or $55 onsite;
When: Select dates December 1, 2023 to January 8, 2024
Where: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto
Mississauga Illumi
Experience the largest light, sound and multimedia show in the world in 12 unique themed universes of beautiful installations created from millions of brilliant lights. Allow between 60 and 90 minutes to fully appreciate the event.
Details: reserve tickets in advance online; general admission (ages 13+) varies between $9.98 and $19.95 plus tax and service based on date and time; child and senior discounts are offered; free parking available
When: runs until January 7, 2024; ; hours vary based on date
Where: 7174 Derry Crest Drive, Mississauga
Village of Yorkville Holiday Magic
The beautiful holiday lights of Yorkville Park, in the heart of Toronto, return for another spectacular, one-of-a-kind display.
Details: this is a free event
When: November 25–December 31, 2023; kick-off lighting event on November 25, 2023
Where: Cumberland Street and Bellair Street, Toronto
Holiday Nights of Lights
Over 1.5 million synchronized and animated LED lights will make the season bright. Experience an interactive stroll around giant ornaments, animated tunnels, displays and more. Take advantage of the unique and exciting picture-worthy moments. The fun continues with midway attractions and a market with food trucks and vendors. Check online for dates you can bring your pets to this attraction.
Details: Adults $19.99; child pass $14.99 (free for children one and under); family 4-pack $65 (two adults + two children); friends 4-pack $70 (four adult passes)
When: December 1, 2023 – January 7, 2024
Where: 500 Progress Avenue, Scarborough (Scarborough Town Centre, outdoor parking lot, across from the Best Buy)
York, Durham and Headwaters
Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest
The magic of the holiday returns to Canada’s largest theme park. Canada’s Wonderland continues to thrill and delight through the season as it transforms into WinterFest, an enchanting experience with spectacular holiday lights, Christmas trees (including two massive, decorated trees on International Street), themed entertainment, ice skating opportunities, food and more.
Details: Tickets are available at the gate or save on the price of admission when you buy tickets online
When: November 17–January 6, 2024, select nights
Where: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan
Christmas in the Park
Celebrating its 31st year, Kay Cee Gardens is transformed into a magical outdoor wonderland with lights, displays, entertainment and treats during Christmas in the Park.
Details: presented by the Optimist Club of Orangeville, this free event is pet-friendly and family-friendly
When: every evening from December 3 – 31, 2023, 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Hamilton, Halton and Brant
Winter Wonders at Royal Botanical Gardens
Revel in the magic of nature and light as you stroll along the 1.5 kilometre pathway in the Royal Botanical Garden's Hendrie Park and experience a tapestry of brilliant festive lights and holiday art installments under the stars. During the day, the entire family can explore Hendrie Park on a holiday train ride aboard the RBG Express.
Details: pre-registration is required for this ticketed event
When: November 23, 2023–January 7, 2024,
Where: 680 Plains Road West, Burlington
Burlington Festival of Lights
Celebrating its 28th anniversary, Burlington’s Spencer Smith Park, hugging the shores of Lake Ontario, will sparkle and shine this holiday season with magical themed displays. Wander through the park with friends and family, including your four-legged family member as the event is dog-friendly.
Details: this event is free
When: November 24, 2023–January 8, 2024, daily from 4:00 p.m. to midnight, with extended hours for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Orthodox Christmas and New Years Eve
Where: 1400 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
Journey into Enchantment
Drive along an enchanting two-kilometre route featuring over two million custom, interactive 2D and 3D Christmas and holiday-themed light displays of your favourite characters, a sparkling, drive-through tunnel, accompanying seasonal music and Santa Claus himself.
Details: tickets are based on up to eight passengers; book tickets in advance online
When: Starting December 1, 2023, on select weekdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays from 7:15 to 11:00 p.m.
Where: 13959 3 Line, Halton Hills
Southwestern Ontario
Magic of Lights in London
Magic of Lights, just outside of London, is a two kilometre long drive-through holiday light display featuring over two million LED lights. Visit to see the playful dinosaurs of a Prehistoric Christmas, Santa on Vacation, Snowflake Forest, the 15 metre (50 feet) Mega Tree and the Enchanted Tunnel of Lights plus more! Proudly supporting the Children's Health Foundation
Details: One carload, one price! Tickets start at $20.
When: November 17, 2023–January 6, 2024; 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (10:00 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
Where: Longwoods Road Conservation Area (8348 Longwoods Road, Delaware)
Holiday Lights Heritage Nights in LaSalle
Each year the town of LaSalle, just south of Windsor, hosts the much-anticipated Holiday Lights Heritage Nights event at the Civic Centre. This holiday-themed outdoor walk-through festival features amazing light and ornamental displays, a massive Christmas tree, a holiday market, food, drinks and entertainment.
Details: free event; paid parking, including accessible parking, is available; portable restrooms are provided on-site; visit Santa on Fridays
When: November 24, 2023–January 7, 2024; lights turn on daily at 5:00 p.m.
Where: LaSalle Civic Centre, 5950 Malden Road, LaSalle
Bright Lights Windsor
The return of Bright Lights Windsor is bigger and brighter in 2023. Get immersed in the seasonally themed zones, or sit back and relax in cozy chairs by the fire. Highlights include LED Chair Swing, interactive lights, singing tree lights and more. Sensory-friendly “Silent Nights” are available Tuesday evening.
Details: admission is free
When: December 1, 2023–January 7, 2024
Where: Jackson Park, 125 Tecumseh Road East
Simcoe Christmas Panorama River of Lights
Once again, one of the oldest light festivals in Ontario returns to transform Simcoe’s downtown in and around Wellington Park into a winter wonderland with themed displays, thousands of lights and hundreds of beautifully decorated trees. Enjoy the view from a horse-drawn trolley on select weekends, visit the Christmas market and warm up with a hot chocolate.
Details: free event; Bonnie Drive will be closed to vehicles, but parking is available on streets surrounding the park; portable facilities are offered
When: Check back soon for dates
Where: 50 Bonnie Drive, Simcoe
Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
Bingemans Gift of Lights & Jingle Bell Rock
One of the region’s longest drive-through holiday light attractions features two tunnels and over 300 animated and static sparkling light installations. Tune into Gift of Lights Radio at 100.1 FM as you cruise past the delightful displays and enjoy the show from the warmth and comfort of your vehicle. The magic continues on a Jingle Bell Rock walking tour of large light displays.
Details: Tickets purchased for this combined experience include access for all passengers to enter Jingle Bell Rock following the Gift of Light Drive Thru.
When: November 17, 2023–January 6, 2024; hours vary between 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.; select nights reserved for walk only
Where: 25 Bingemans Centre Drive, Kitchener
Cambridge Winterfest
Special events throughout the season include a musical tour of local art installations, the CP Holiday Train, the Winter Ice and Lights event in Central Park in Preston and a New Year’s Eve party.
Details: this is a free event
When: November 24–January 1, 2024
Where: Downtown Cambridge
Lights on Stratford Winter Festival of Lights
Once again, downtown Stratford transforms with enchanting interactive light displays and art installations designed to rekindle the joy of spending time with friends and family.
Come for the lights and stay for the bites. One of Ontario’s most prominent theatre, cultural and arts destinations is also home to inviting accommodations, unique shopping, gorgeous galleries and notably diverse food and drink experiences.
Details: free event
When: December 15, 2023–January 13, 2024, 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. nightly, including New Year's Day Eve
Where: various locations in downtown Stratford
Goderich Shines: Festival of Lights Celebration
Perched on the shores of Lake Huron, the town of Goderich is pretty in every season, but the lights of the Holiday season add an extra sparkle and glow.
Details: this is a free event
When: November 18, 2023–January 16, 2024
Where: various locations throughout downtown Goderich
Bruce, Grey and Simcoe
Holiday Magic at Blue Mountain Village
Blue Mountain Village is once again wrapped in one million lights, garlands and bows and there is magic around every corner. Follow the Interactive Light Trail through the village and around the Mill Pond, with fireworks over the pond on Saturday nights at 8:00 p.m. and weekend holiday music, entertainment and even visits from Santa on a horse-drawn sleigh.
Details: this is a free event
When: November 18, 2023–January 3, 2023; Light Trail is lit every evening starting at dusk
Where: 156 Jozo Weider Boulevard, The Blue Mountains
Owen Sound Festival of Northern Lights
Owen Sound’s harbour, riverbanks, downtown and Harrison Park will be decorated with hundreds of displays and over 25 kilometres of lights, serving as a colourful backdrop for seasonal concerts, craft shows and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Details: free event with special entertainment and fireworks on the opening night
When: November 18, 2023–January 7, 2024, 5:00 to 10:00 p.m..
Where: throughout downtown Owen Sound
First Light at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
Celebrate the 23rd anniversary of First Light Head to Midland for a lineup of activities, entertainment and performers, all amidst the spectacular glow of thousands of candles lighting up pathways around the historic 17th-century mission site during this magical seasonal event Browse the holiday craft market and enjoy special treats from the cookhouse.
Details: reserve tickets in advance; $15 per person; kids aged 5 and under are free; service animals permitted
When: November 16, 17 and 18; November 23, 24 and 25 and December 1 and 2, 2023, 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.
Muskoka, Parry Sound and Algonquin Park
Bracebridge Festival of Lights
Downtown Bracebridge sparkles with holiday cheer during the annual Festival of Lights. The event features an array of family-friendly activities, including moonlight shopping, entertainment, a Santa Claus parade and lots of twinkling lights.
Details: this is a free event
When: November 17 and 24; December 1, 2023
Where: throughout Downtown Bracebridge
As you plan your festival winter activities, visit Festivals and Events Ontario to discover even more seasonal fun in Ontario.
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Last updated: January 2, 2024