Magical moments at these light festivals

South Eastern Ontario

The holiday season is a time to create unforgettable memories, and what better way to do that than by experiencing the twinkling lights, festive cheer, and timeless traditions of South Eastern Ontario? Whether you're strolling through enchanted villages, riding a festive train, or warming up by a winter fire, these seasonal events are sure to fill your heart with joy and your calendar with holiday spirit. Read on to discover some of the most magical holiday experiences this region has to offer.

Illuminating History: Alight at Night’s Festive Charm

Step into the heart of the holiday season at Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village. This beloved event transforms the historic 19th-century village into a dazzling winter wonderland with over one million lights. It’s the perfect setting to create cherished memories with your loved ones—whether you're rekindling an annual tradition or starting a brand-new one.

As you wander through the enchanting illuminated streets, the magic of the holidays truly comes alive. Families will adore the Ginger Snapshot Station, the playful Frosty Fun Zone, and the chance to meet St. Nicholas at his Winter Workshop. Couples can slow down and reconnect with romantic carriage rides, a candlelit dinner at Willard’s Hotel, or nostalgic caroling at the Village church.

Watch the vibrant light and sound show, where dazzling displays dance to holiday music, or hop aboard the festive ‘toy’ train for a whimsical ride through the Village. Warm up with festive treats, and don’t forget to visit the Village Store for one-of-a-kind gifts that will bring a piece of this magical evening home.

Alight at Night is the perfect way to celebrate the season and embrace the joy of togetherness. Make it part of your holiday tradition, and see why this event has captured the hearts of families and couples for over two decades.

When: November 29, 2024, to January 4, 2025,

Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Rd 2, Morrisburg, ON K0C 1X0

Tickets: UpperCanadaVillage.com

Be sure to reserve your date and entry time to secure your spot in this winter wonderland.

 

Twinkling Traditions Await at the Gananoque Festival of Lights

This holiday season, Gananoque, the gateway to the 1000 Islands, transforms into a shimmering winter wonderland during the 2024 Gananoque Festival of Lights. The town’s historic charm shines even brighter with twinkling lights, festive events, and magical activities for couples and families alike.

Kick off the season with the opening of Candy Cane Lane on November 29th, a glowing path lined with dazzling candy canes, followed by the enchanting Santa Claus Parade on November 30th, themed Gingerbread Wonderland. These events set the stage for a season filled with cheer and unforgettable moments.

Take a leisurely stroll through Town Hall Park, where sparkling light displays include illuminated candy canes, glowing fountains, and a radiant Christmas tree. The festive atmosphere continues with a wide range of activities, from decorating ornaments while sipping hot chocolate to enjoying live concerts and classic holiday films.

Adding to the festive cheer, visitors can enjoy carollers’ serenades, donate to the Giving Tree at the Visitor Centre, and snap photos under a shining holiday photo frame. 

While you're in town, soak in the storybook charm of Gananoque’s historic streets and waterfront setting. It's a perfect spot to savour the holiday spirit!

When:  From November 29th to early January, 

Where: Gananoque, 30 King St E, Gananoque, ON K7G 2T6

Free- no tickets required

 

Holiday Glow at Brockville’s River of Lights

Get ready for a dazzling holiday experience at the River of Lights on Blockhouse Island, This family-friendly light and sound show is an annual tradition you won’t want to miss. Running every night until January 6, 2025, the show features thousands of twinkling lights choreographed to festive tunes, creating a stunning winter wonderland. On select nights in November through January, ride the Aquatarium Holiday Train for a unique view of the lights!

When:  Starting November 30 - January 6

Full show choreographed to music starts at 6:00 pm and runs on a loop until 10pm. The first and final hours (between 5:00 pm-6:00 pm, and 10:00 pm-11:00 pm) feature a softer light show without the music, more suitable for someone with sensory concerns or people who like a calmer experience.

Where: Blockhouse Island Parkway, a peninsula on the waterfront- Brockville, ON K6V 2A7

Free- no tickets required (fee for train applies)

Parade time in Napanee

Head to Downtown Napanee for a night of festive floats and holiday cheer at the Greater Napanee Parade of Lights. 

When: Saturday Dec 7, 2024

Where: Starts at 170 York Street (Napanee Fairgrounds)

Free. View the parade route here.

 

The CPKC Holiday Train Is Back: Sparkling Lights and Music for a Cause

The CPKC Holiday Train is a beloved annual event that brings festive cheer and supports community food banks across Canada and the U.S.

The train features a spectacular display of holiday lights and offers live performances in various locations. The CPKC Holiday Train is an excellent way to get into the spirit of the season while contributing to a worthy cause. It's a family-friendly experience, with events taking place on select nights between November and January.

Notable dates in South Eastern Ontario. Check the website for more details.

Nov 28

Finch  14:45 - 15:15

Merrickville 17:00-17:30

Nov 29

Belleville  9:30 - 10:00

Trenton 10:45 - 11:15

Lighting up the Bay!

The Belleville Festival of Lights display is running from now until January 6, 2025 at Jane Forrester Park. Don’t miss Quinte West’s annual Fantasy of Lights in both Fraser Park and Frankford Tourist Park. Lastly, Greater Napanee’s Light Up the Park will stay lit until early January as well.

Off the beaten track!

Honouring Traditions in Fairfield House

For over two decades, the community of Fairfield has come together to celebrate the magic of the season through the Light Up the Season event. What started with two trees—one adorned with white lights and the other with vibrant colours—has grown into a cherished tradition.

When:  Saturday, November 23, 2024. Between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Trees will stay lit during the winter season until early February.  

Where:  Fairfield Park, 4574 Bath Road, Amherstview

Free- no tickets required

 

Welcome to Clow's Christmas Trail

Step into a winter wonderland at Clow's Christmas Trail—a magical 1.5 km walk through a beautifully decorated outdoor Christmas village. As you make your way through the woods, you’ll encounter enchanting holiday displays, including a Nativity Scene, winter sports lane, Santa’s Toy Shop, and even special visitors along the trail. It's the perfect way to create festive memories with your family, all while taking in the twinkling lights and seasonal cheer. Just remember to dress warmly.

When: Dec 6, 7, 8  (Fri, Sat, Sun) Dec 13- 23rd, nightly.

Where: 2224 Hallecks Rd W, Brockville, ON 

Tickets: https://clows.ca/event/2024-season/

No matter where you go in South Eastern Ontario, the spirit of the season is waiting to welcome you!