By Natalie Friday, December 6, 2024

Although summer is in our name, we’re head over heels for winter too—especially the holiday season! The sparkle of magical light shows, the warmth of mulled wine, and the joy of festive markets make this time of year extra special. If you’re ready to bask in the glow of holiday cheer, we’ve rounded up some of the best light shows in Ontario for 2024.

Greater Toronto Area (GTA)

Illumi by Cavalia (Mississauga)

Get ready to explore the largest light, sound, and multimedia show in the world! With over 20 million lights spread across 16 magical universes, including the iconic 47-metre-tall Tree of Lights, Illumi is a must-see outdoor spectacle.

Cavalcade of Lights (Toronto)

Celebrate the season at Nathan Phillips Square with glittering lights, festive music, and ice skating under the stars. This Toronto tradition is perfect for a magical holiday night out. Plus every Saturday night from 4 to 7 p.m., take advantage of free skate rentals!

WinterFest at Canada’s Wonderland (Vaughan)

Experience a winter wonderland with millions of sparkling lights, enchanting live shows and holiday entertainment, ice-skating on Snow Flake Lake, exciting rides and holiday treats.

Ottawa

Magic of Lights (Wesley Clover Parks)

Stay cozy in your car and enjoy this drive-through holiday light show. With dazzling LED displays and festive scenes, it’s a family favorite from Nov. 18 to Jan. 7.

Christmas Lights Across Canada

Every night until January 7th Ottawa’s downtown core lights up with thousands of twinkling lights and a stunning multimedia show on Parliament Hill. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the capital’s festive spirit.

Holiday Light Festival at Saunders Farm

Snap holiday photos among the lights, grab a warm bite to eat, pick the perfect tree and snag a great gift at The Farmshop! Don’t forget to stop by our Christmas Activity Stations!

Northern ON

Sudbury Festival of Lights

Get into the spirit of the season by visiting the Festival of Lights ~ Brilliant displays of Christmas lights at Science North! Encompassing over 250 separate elements containing approx 3.25kms of lighting with nearly 55,000 LED lights. Admission & parking is free!

Southwestern Ontario

Bright Lights Windsor

Jackson Park transforms into a glowing garden of lights with themed displays, illuminated tunnels, and festive décor. Visit Santa in his workshop, ride the holiday train, shop sip and eat at the holiday market and so much more.

Gift of Lights (Kitchener)

Bingemans hosts this dazzling drive-through event featuring a 40 foot twinkly LED tree, two tunnels and over 300 animated and static displays. It’s a magical outing for all ages.

Winterlit Trail (Mountsberg Conservation Area)

Take a scenic stroll through an enchanting trail adorned with unique lighting and art installations. Local music adds a soulful touch to this serene holiday experience and cozy by Fireside Lounges keep you warm so you can ejoy the fesivities.

Central ON

Simcoe Christmas Panorama (Simcoe)

Explore this winter wonderland with over 60 dazzling displays and 500,000 lights. Don’t miss the horse-drawn trolley rides, character meet and greets a meeting with Santa! Grab a warm cup of hot chocolate while you walk under the lights festive market for a magical holiday evening.

Lang Pioneer Village Christmas by Candlelight (Keene)

Step back in time and experience a traditional Pioneer Christmas with caroling, Christmas craft and games, horse-drawn wagon rides and a live nativity scene. It’s a nostalgic way to celebrate the season.

Holiday Magic at Blue

Follow the Interactive Light Trail through the village and around the Mill Pond. Enjoy fireworks over the pond on Saturday nights, plus weekend holiday music, a Snowdome Garden, seasonal entertainment and even visits from Santa on a horse-drawn sleigh.

Eastern ON

Alight at Night (Upper Canada Village, Morrisburg)

Stroll through this heritage village illuminated by over one million lights. From cozy horse-drawn wagon rides to singing heartwarming carols, this event is like stepping into a Christmas postcard.

River of Lights (Brockville)

This free light and music show on Blockhouse Island is a holiday treat. Tune into festive tunes while thousands of lights create a magical atmosphere along the St. Lawrence River.

Niagara Region

Winter Festival of Lights (Niagara Falls)

Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival features millions of lights and illuminated displays along an 8-kilometer route. Pair it with the illuminated Niagara Falls for an unforgettable experience.

Safari Lights (Stevensville)

Embark on a 3-kilometer drive-through adventure featuring whimsical animal light displays, immersive light tunnels, and motion lights. It’s a safari of holiday cheer!

No matter where you are in Ontario, there’s a holiday light show near you to add a little sparkle to your season. Wishing you a warm and merry Christmas filled with lights, laughter, and love!

Natalie