A free holiday light festival is taking over this waterfront near Toronto

A trip to Burlington, Ont., is in order this winter! The annual Burlington Festival of Lights returns to the city, bringing joy and magic to its waterfront, illuminating the night sky.

Now, until Jan. 7, 2026, the Burlington Festival of Lights will light up the waterfront every night, showcasing holiday-themed displays during the winter season.

What to look out for

Expect more than 60 glowing displays, festive events, and photo-worthy moments these next few weeks. “Bring family, friends, and even your pets to stroll, drive, and delight in Burlington’s most enchanting holiday tradition,” shares organizers.

Spencer Smith Park will transform into a bright, winter wonderland, welcoming all to experience the magical installations.

This free event garners thousands of local residents and visitors from across the region, according to the city. And thousands more who decide to drive along and spot them from the comfort of their own cars.

It is a popular annual tradition in the community!

There are several parking lots located in Downtown Burlington, so if you’d like to get up close and personal with the installations, you totally can. But if you would rather avoid the cold and see them from afar, drive along Lakeshore Road, and you can see them from there.

Along with the festival, there’s a lot more to do in Burlington than just holiday lights. There’s a line-up of events on the docket, including a Jingle Market on Dec. 6, a parade pop-up on Dec. 7, and even ice sculpting on that same day.

The town has the full holiday schedule online.

Looks like you have a number of things on your holiday to-do list this year.

Burlington Festival of Lights

When: Until Jan. 7, 2026
Time: Varies
Where: Spencer Smith Park — 1400 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington, Ont.
Cost: Free

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