Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival will set this Ontario area aglow

The best part about this time of year is all the festivals, but attending them can get pricey. Well, the annual Winter Festival of Lights kicks off soon, and it’s Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival, meaning you won’t have to worry about paying admission.

The 2025/2026 rendition of the Winter Festival of Lights runs from Nov. 15, 2025, to Jan. 4, 2026, covering the city of Niagara Falls in over three million lights.

While the lights are arguably the most anticipated part, there are plenty of events you can attend and get excited about, too.

New this year, the festival will include a laser light show every Friday and Saturday night at Queen Victoria Park. The show will go on every half hour from 6 to 9 p.m.

Have a sweet tooth like me? You have to head to the Hot Chocolate Trail. The festival’s website provides a free, interactive map, guiding you to 30 different stops, featuring over 50 takes on a cup of the good stuff.

Some of the participating spots include:

• The Blind Pig
• Doc Magillian’s
• Bella Terra Vineyards
• Riverview Cellars
• District 11
• Coco’s Terrace Steakhouse
• Lobby Bar
• Plush Imperial

Finally, don’t forget to check out the free fireworks series. Every Friday and Saturday from Nov. 15 to Dec. 20, and nightly from Dec. 25 to Jan. 4 at 8 p.m., the skies will be illuminated by a show over the falls.

If you want an extra good view, try to get a spot on the Niagara Skywheel, trust me, and thank me later!

You can even make a whole weekend out of it, as Niagara Falls has tons of hotel options. 

Start planning that trip to experience the Winter Festival of Lights; it all begins this weekend.

Winter Festival of Lights

When: Nov. 15, 2025, to Jan. 4, 2025
Where: Niagara Falls, Ont.
Cost: Free admission

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