Niagara Falls, Ontario, is about to transform into a captivating winter wonderland with the return of the Winter Festival of Lights! This beloved tradition will enchant the tourist district from November 16, 2024, through January 5, 2025.
Celebrating more than 40 years of magic, the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights offers 51 nights of dazzling displays, making it Canada’s largest FREE outdoor light festival!
The Lights
More than 75 displays and 3 million lights will illuminate an 8-kilometer stretch of the Niagara Parkway, Dufferin Islands, and the surrounding tourist districts. Visitors can enjoy the self-guided experience by walking or driving the festival route, which showcases themed areas like the Royal
Promenade featuring a Princess and Knight, a lilac tree, a fairytale village, and Frosted Falls with candy canes, gingerbread houses, and elves. The Great Canadian North is home to Mama Polar Bear and Cub, stalagmites, and the iconic Royal Canadian Mounted Police display.
One of the most popular spots is Dufferin Islands, where wildlife-themed illuminations like flying geese, wooly mammoths, swans, wolves, and even Noah’s Ark come to life. Many of the best Niagara Falls hotels are just a short walk from the displays, making a Niagara Falls getaway a charming experience on a winter’s evening for guests of all ages.
Niagara Falls Fireworks
Adding to the magic, the festival will also feature spectacular fireworks displays above the Falls. Fireworks will take place at 8:00 pm every Friday and Saturday during the festival, with nightly shows during the Christmas holidays. On New Year’s Eve, two special displays are scheduled to mark the occasion; 8:00 pm and midnight.
Fireworks Dates:
- November: 16, 22-23 at 8:00 pm
- December: 1-2, 6-7, 13-14, 20-31 at 8:00 pm
- New Year’s Eve: 8:00 pm and 12:00 am
- January: 1-5 at 8:00 pm
Sparkling Illumination Displays
Each night, the Canadian Horseshoe and American Falls will come alive with a stunning illumination show. Produced by the Niagara Falls Illumination Board, this spectacle features color palettes and movements inspired by northern winters, including the Northern Lights, snowstorms, and falling snow. The five-minute light show plays at the top of the hour at 6:00 pm, 7:00 pm, and 8:00 pm during the festival.
Hot Chocolate Trail
Back by popular demand, the Niagara Falls Hot Chocolate Trail will warm your winter nights. Participating Niagara Falls hotels and restaurants will offer a variety of indulgent hot chocolate creations. From classic flavors to unique combinations like mint, s’mores, and orange, there’s something for everyone. Some venues will even serve spiked versions for the adults, featuring flavored liqueurs. Participating venues include Hershey’s Chocolate World, Niagara Distillery, Marriott on the Falls, and Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa to name a few.
Mark Your Calendar
Get ready to experience the magic of winter at the Winter Festival of Lights! With dazzling displays, family-friendly fun, and seasonal treats, this festival is a must-see.
Make your stay unforgettable by booking a Fallsview room at one of the top hotels in Niagara Falls, and immerse yourself in the wonder of the season!