By Kate Bartlett
The holidays are behind us, but the Niagara Falls Festival of Lights is going strong through February 20th in Canada. Cross the border to see the majestic Canadian Horseshoe Falls illuminate every evening paying tribute to the natural beauty all around us. The Festival is celebrating it’s 40th anniversary with 101 days of a new illumination light show “Sparking Winter Lights.”
The colorful Falls display consists of a five-minute lighting taking place on the hour at 6, 7, and 8 every evening until February 20th. The falls will remain illuminated after the featured show for the remainder of the evening complete with fireworks on Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm.
The Festival features millions of twinkling lights and immersive displays along the route of Niagara Parkway through Dufferin Islands and into the tourist districts of Fallsview Boulevard, Lundy’s Lane and Downtown Niagara Falls. Illuminations include more than 50 large displays and dozens of trees wrapped in lights, the two-story tall Zimmerman fountain, castles, 60-foot tunnel and more.
Focused on providing fun for all ages, the festival features free family fun entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings. Events include Magic Shows by Peter Mennie, Darren Bedford Juggling and Yo-Yo Show, Performances by Splash & Boots, the Tex Mex Winter Show and more. Visit https://wfol.com/events-calendar/category/events/ for full schedule. All shows are free.
New this year, warm up with a hot beverage while you explore the Hot Chocolate Trail. This self-guided trail includes 17 delicious stops of chocolatery created by chocolatiers, chefs and mixologists. Visit some of the area’s best restaurants and bake shops, and a few hidden gems, as you sip on a variety of hand-crafted hot chocolate beverages. From classic combinations with mint, orange and s’mores to inventive cocktails (non-alcoholic available) with flavored marshmallows or a Velvet Kiss; with 23 chocolate creations there’s something for everyone! For a full list and map visit https://wfol.com/events/.
Visitors are invited to experience the very first night flightseeing tour over the Falls with Niagara Helicopters Nights and Lights. Take in the falls soaring above the lights displays and the surrounding area. Tours run sunset to 8pm daily weather permitting. Tickets available online https://www.niagarafallstourism.com/events/night-helicopter-flight/.
Make it a weekend getaway, and stay at one of the many hotel accommodations just steps from the Falls. Visit Clifton Hill, ride the Sky Wheel, take a gamble at the casino or dine at one of the many fine restaurants in the area. Explore the wines of the Niagara region or stroll the shops at nearby Niagara on the Lake. The event will run through Valentine’s Day weekend, making for a great trip with your sweetheart.
If you haven’t been across the border lately, most restrictions have been lifted. Covid testing is no longer required, and no re-registration or App is needed. Just bring your passport or enhanced drivers license and come across to Canada.