‘Tis the festive season, and November 18th marks the beginning of cherished holiday traditions! Join us at Queen Victoria Park as Niagara Parks proudly hosts the grand kickoff celebration for the 41st Annual Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights.
Kick-off Celebration
This exceptional event, free for all, is an unmissable experience! Commencing at 6 p.m., witness the magical metamorphosis of Queen Victoria Park into a dazzling winter wonderland for the inaugural spectacle of the year. Adjacent to Queen Victoria Place, DJ Nicholas Picholas will set the musical tone, providing a vibrant ambiance as guests explore interactive light displays. From 7:30 p.m. onwards, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking performance of Circus Orange on the outdoor stage, showcasing gravity-defying stunts. capping the night, a spectacular fireworks display will light up the sky at 8 p.m.
A complimentary hop-on, hop-off shuttle service will operate from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., linking visitors to highlighted displays of the current year’s Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights along the scenic Niagara Parkway.
Events To Experience
Winter Festival of Lights
Witness a breathtaking transformation from November 18, 2023, to January 7, 2024, as the mesmerizing area around the majestic Horseshoe Falls becomes a vivid canvas of dazzling hues. Delight in immersive and interactive exhibits showcasing over three million lights along the Niagara Parkway, encompassing prominent spots such as Table Rock Centre, Queen Victoria Park, and Dufferin Islands.
Annual Poinsettia Show
Join in the holiday festivities at the Floral Showhouse as Niagara Parks presents its Annual Poinsettia Show, running from November 18, 2023, to January 7, 2024.
Immerse yourself in the holiday ambiance with a breathtaking showcase featuring vibrant poinsettias, complemented by an exquisite array of cyclamens, amaryllis, and orchids, beautifully encapsulating the essence of Niagara’s festive spirit.
Hot Chocolate Trail
Embark on the self-guided Hot Chocolate Trail, guiding you to delectable hot chocolate creations crafted by talented chocolatiers, chefs, and mixologists at renowned eateries and bake shops across Niagara. Notable stops include the Table Rock House Restaurant by Niagara Parks.
This year’s highlight is the salted caramel hot chocolate, blending Wayne Gretzky’s Salted Caramel Cream Whiskey, adorned with whipped cream and hazelnut praline. For those seeking a non-alcoholic option, we’ve got you covered.
Exclusive to the Winter Festival of Lights period, these special offerings perfectly complement your festival adventures! Hurry and savour these unique treats before they vanish!
The Winter Festival of Lights has many events apart from the lighting displays.
Do not miss the opening ceremonies at Queen Victoria Park.
Visitors can also enjoy weekend firework shows, nightly Falls illumination, the Sparkle Lighting Awards, and Niagara Falls New Year’s Eve Concert.
Venues of Lighting and Displays
- Queen Victoria Park
- Floral Showhouse
- Table Rock Centre
- Grand View Marketplace
- Skylon Tower
- Niagara Parkway: The entire 55-km stretch has many incredible animated and still lighting displays.
- Dufferin Islands: Visitors will see trees wrapped in lights, Canadian wildlife displays, and a water fountain illuminated in changing colours.
- Niagara Power Station: Explore Sandie Bellows Plaza, situated near the Niagara Parks Power Station, and immerse yourself in festive photo opportunities and engaging interactive displays. Don’t miss the chance to play the piano using your feet! Uncover “The Power of Play,” a captivating new interactive installation featured at this year’s Winter Festival of Lights.
Niagara Falls Winter Tour and Winter Festival of Lights
While most people plan Niagara Falls tours in the summer, the sight of Niagara Falls in winter against the backdrop of snow is stunning.
There are a lot of sights, attractions, and events that visitors can enjoy even in winter.
Winter Festival of Lights captures the spirit of the holiday season, so come with your family and loved ones to enjoy the festive season in Niagara Falls.
You can spend Christmas in Niagara Falls and even ring in the New Year.
There is no admission fee to view the lighting displays but donations are accepted at the exit of Dufferin Islands. Contributions are used to enhance the lights and displays.
For more information on events, displays and transportation, please click here.