December is here and we’re in full holiday mode. Christmas trees are up, the house is decked in the best holiday decor, and Christmas shopping is in full swing. But it feels like we’re missing something… Oh, all the fun-filled holiday light festivals that we have yet to explore.

Now, what are you waiting for? Get your plans in order and hit the road. There are a ton of holiday light fests scattered across Ontario that have yet to be enjoyed – by you, of course.

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Here are 7 Ontario holiday light festivals that you need to check out and will surely put you in the festive mood:

Burlington Festival of Lights

The Festival of Lights will light up the night sky every night, showcasing holiday-themed displays during the winter season.

Spencer Smith Park transforms 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.

When: November 24, 2023 to January 8, 2024
Where: Spencer Smith Park – 1400 Lakeshore Rd, Burlington, ON

Christmas Glow Toronto

This year, instead of taking you on a trip to Santa’s village, you’ll be taken on a trip around the world.

The indoor experience will take visitors on an illuminated journey to six different countries. No passport required!

When you’re tired of walking, you can board the magical glowing train, Glen the Glow-comotive.

The best part is that it’s entirely indoors, so you won’t have to pose for photos in your winter parka.

Where: Toronto Congress Centre, 1020 Martin Grove Road
When:  November 30th, 2023 – December 31st, 2023
Cost: Weekdays $30 & Weekends $32 (General Admission)

Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village

Dazzling lights have taken over Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village for the holidays. Gaze in awe at over one million lights that hang on heritage buildings, trees, and fences at eastern Ontario’s largest light show. Celebrate the holidays like it’s an 1866 pioneer village bash.

When: December 1 to January 6 on select days
Where: Upper Canada Village – 13740 County Rd 2, Morrisburg, Ont

Holiday Magic at Blue Mountain


From November 18th to January 7th, check out Holiday Magic at Blue and experience the festive Village draped in garlands and bows, illuminated from head to toe in the most stunning holiday lights.

You can take a stroll through its 1 km Light Trail through the Village as you shop, dine, and take in the beauty of winter. Interactive displays and holiday lights will glow brightly as you experience the trail into the night, around the Mill Pond.

There’s also a musical light show with interactive installations at the Dream Tree and Topsicles.

When: November 18th to January 7th
Where: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd, The Blue Mountains

Lights On Stratford

The annual winter festival Lights on Stratford returns and will transform the town’s downtown core and parks with bright displays, bringing some light to the coldest season.

Starting December 15th to January 13th, the free event will welcome all to enjoy exciting art installations scattered across Stratford.

When: December 15th, 2023 to January 13th, 2024
Where: Scattered across downtown Stratford
Cost: Free

Christmas at the Castle & Holiday Lights

 

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Holiday Lights is a self-guided walk that will delight guests as they encounter the almost endless holiday decorations, lights, and live performances. There will be a magic show, a fire performer, roaming mime artists, mascots, and silt walkers. We can’t for the Christmas carolers and of course, Santa.

When: December 1st to January 6th
Where: Casa Loma – 1 Austin Terrace
Cost: Starting at $45+tax

Winter Festival of Lights

This dazzling event is Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival and it transforms the entire area into a magical wonderland.

There are new interactive displays and themed illumination areas to experience this year, and you can explore them all on foot or from the comfort of your car. Millions of lights illuminate the night, creating larger-than-life displays that will blow you away.

See over 75 installations at the Royal Promenade, Frosted Falls, Enchanted Forest, Great Canadian North, Dufferin Islands, and Niagara Parkway.

When: November 18th, 2023 to January 7th, 2024
Where: Niagara Falls – See festival map here
Cost: FREE

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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