One of the oldest light festivals in Ontario is just a drive away from Toronto

One of Ontario’s oldest light festivals is getting ready to brighten the night skies once again. The 67th annual Simcoe Christmas Panorama is set to transform the town into a glittering wonderland, and here’s everything you need to know about the exciting experience.

Mark your calendars for Nov. 29, 2025, as Simcoe’s downtown area and Wellington Park will become a winter wonderland, featuring themed displays, thousands of lights and hundreds of gorgeous, decorated Christmas trees.

What to expect

Festivities will begin right at 6 p.m., as the official lighting up in the park will take place. Santa will be in attendance, ditching his sleigh for the evening and arriving on the Bickle firetruck.

“Opening Ceremonies will be hosted by Robyn Beazley, and one local child will help Santa switch on the lights to start the season,” state organizers.

Once the lights are glowing bright, setting up the rest of the programming for the season.

In December, there will be horse-drawn trolleys available to enjoy. These will take visitors on a magical ride around the Panorama parks.

Trolleys will run from Dec. 12 and 13, 2025 and Dec. 19 and 20, 2025. Rides will run from 6 to 9 p.m. each of these nights. This experience is available for $4 each, while babies and toddlers in laps are free.

The festival will run until Jan. 1, 2026, and lights will remain every night starting at 6 p.m. and ending around 10 p.m., including holidays.

Add this experience to your winter bucket list!

Simcoe Christmas Panorama River of Lights

When: Nov. 29 to Dec. 31, 2025
Where: 50 Bonnie Dr., Simcoe, Ont.
Cost: Free

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