By Kate Bartlett
Since 1982, Niagara Falls, Ontario, has held Canada’s largest free illumination festival attracting over 1 million visitors annually. From mid-November through January, the Winter Festival of Lights transforms Niagara Falls into breathtaking colors amidst millions of twinkling lights, engaging displays, and interactive experiences. The festival is free and family friendly.
Janice Thomson, President and CEO of Niagara Falls Tourism, has been involved with the festival for 20 years. Over the years, Janice has enjoyed watching festival become a holiday tradition for families and visitors alike. “The displays along the route of the Niagara Parkway through Durrerin Islands into Fallsview Boulevard and Lundy’s Lane are truly remarkable.”
The festival started 41 years ago as a way to increase tourism though the holiday season, and has evolved to be the premier illumination festival in North America. Adding more lights every year, the twinkling displays include 75 larger than life displays, dozens of trees wrapped in lights, the two-story tall Zimmerman Fountain, 40-foot light castle and more.
This year in more immersive than ever before, with a large scooped out illuminated Christmas Tree and several interactive displays. “The area of Lundy’s Lane is lined with large candy cane displays, and we have several interactive displays this year,” says Janice. “We’ve added illuminated life-size teeter-toters near Queen Victoria Place, and veranda style swings. It’s been fun watching visitors enjoy these features, taking pictures and having a good time.”
With so much to explore, visitors can have a different experience each and every time they visit. Guests can opt for a fully drive-through experience or park and walk through the displays at their leisure. “You really can make the festival what you want and tailor it to meet the needs of your group. You can leisurely stroll the displays and stop for hot chocolate, or make it a day and weekend-long excursion enjoying the many attractions on Clifton Hill and shopping at the outlets on Lundy’s Lane.”
In addition to the illuminations, the festival boasts 26 nights of fireworks over The Falls, every Friday and Saturday evening November 18-December 21th at 8pm, and nightly from December 22 through the finale on January 7. Visitors can visit Santa at the Niagara Parks Floral Showcase December 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 from 6-8pm and receive a complimentary digital photograph to capture this holiday tradition.
The Hot Chocolate Trail returns this year offering 22 delicious stops with 36 unique flavors for all ages to enjoy (both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options available). The self-guided trail offers classic combinations with marshmallows and mint as well as inventive cocktails like a Cocoa Cupcake Delight or a S’mores Blizzard Hot Chocolate. Stops include some of the areas acclaimed restaurants, bars and bake shops within Niagara Falls, and offers a great opportunity to warm up while enjoying the Festival of Lights.
Niagara Helicopters will provide Night Flights, offering stunning views of the illuminations and light displays along the festival route. Additional fees apply.
For more information and full calendar of events, visit https://wfol.com/about/ and follow on social media for updates @ WinterFestivalofLights.