Over 170,000 lights sparkle in this peaceful Japanese garden near Calgary

The Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden is a place where cultures come together and serenity abounds. Located in Lethbridge, it’ll be the site of the 10th anniversary celebration of the Nikka Yuko Winter Light Festival.

The festival will kick off on Nov. 29, unveiling more than 170,000 sparkling lights across the serene garden in the heart of Lethbridge.

In 2025, the garden society will also honour the link to the Japanese province of Hokkaidō, celebrating its 45-year friendship with Alberta. There will be bold new displays, stunning light features and fresh surprises throughout the grounds, bringing some holiday spirit to the community.

Experience this picturesque and peaceful garden in a whole new light beginning Saturday, Nov. 29 — here’s what else to expect at the 10-year celebration.

What to expect

The Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden has been creating holiday magic for over a decade with its annual Winter Light Festival. This year, it’s set to be even bigger and brighter than ever, with a special theme honouring the link between Alberta and Hokkaidō.

The event will be a warm-hearted winter journey through a peaceful Japanese garden, lit up by sparkling holiday lights.

You’ll discover glowing pyramids and a sea of parasols suspended overhead. There will also be horse-and-wagon rides that you can take with family or a loved one, which wind around Henderson Lake.

As you walk the illuminated path, each area represents a different season — Haru (spring), Natsu (summer), Aki (fall) and Fuyu (winter), imbued with Japanese-Canadian design and symbolism.

Stay warm

The event takes place outdoors, so you’re encouraged to snuggle up in a warm coat to experience the magic. Layered clothing, weather-appropriate footwear and plenty of time to relax and meander are also preferred.

If the temperature dips below -25 (including wind chill), the garden will be closed due to extreme weather. But on a balmy day, there’s nothing better than wandering through this shimmering paradise of trees, ponds and Japanese garden design.

If you’ve been to the festival before, you’ll want to check it out for a second time due to this year’s expanded displays. They’ll be going all out for the 10-year anniversary — it’s a can’t-miss!

Let the garden illuminate your evening, your imagination and your heart this winter, and don’t forget to brush up on your garden etiquette before you go.

Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden Winter Light Festival

When: Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, to Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026
Time: 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Nikka Yuko — 835 Mayor Magrath Dr. S., Lethbridge, Alta.
Tickets: $17+

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