English
English
Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION9 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
3 starting points available
2. 3 Brewers Restaurant
Convenient pickup at 3 Brewers Restaurant, a popular spot on Yonge Street.
3. Tim Hortons Coffee Shop
Start your day with a pickup at Tim Hortons, a quintessential Canadian coffee shop.
1
Table Rock House Restaurant
60 min
Free Admission
Arrive at the iconic Table Rock for breathtaking views of the Falls.
2
Free time for lunch
3
Journey Behind the Falls
Tickets included
Get ready for an exhilarating boat ride that takes you right to the base of the Horseshoe Falls, offering an unmatched view and a refreshing mist.
4
Free time to explore Niagara Falls area
Sightseeing & Photography
5
END POINT
3 ending points available
1. Chelsea Hotel
2. 3 Brewers Restaurant
3. Tim Hortons Coffee Shop
Discover the best parts of Niagara Falls with a local expert with add-on experiences of your choice.
- Everything you get: You will drive down from Toronto in a comfortable AC bus with an expert guide by your side. The stops at Niagara Falls include the Floral Clock and Niagara Whirlpool, apart from Table Rock restaurant. With three hours of free time, explore Niagara-on-the-Lake at your own pace before heading back.
- Why choose this: Enjoy a hassle-free day with round-trip transport and guided sightseeing. Make your Niagara Falls experience effortless without worrying about planning.
- Upgrades: Add a touch of adventure to your trip by upgrading to the Journey Behind the Falls experience, offering an up-close view of the majestic Horseshoe Falls.
Discover the best parts of Niagara Falls with a local expert with add-on experiences of your choice.
- Everything you get: You will drive down from Toronto in a comfortable AC bus with an expert guide by your side. The stops at Niagara Falls include the Floral Clock and Niagara Whirlpool, apart from Table Rock restaurant. With three hours of free time, explore Niagara-on-the-Lake at your own pace before heading back.
- Why choose this: Enjoy a hassle-free day with round-trip transport and guided sightseeing. Make your Niagara Falls experience effortless without worrying about planning.
- Upgrades: Add a touch of adventure to your trip by upgrading to the Journey Behind the Falls experience, offering an up-close view of the majestic Horseshoe Falls.
Inclusions
- Round-trip transfers from Toronto
- Live on-board tour guide
- Visit to the Floral Clock
- Visit to the Niagara Whirlpool
- 3 hours of free time at The Falls
- Access to Journey Behind the Falls (as per option selected)
- While ponchos are provided, due to the proximity to Horseshoe Falls, expect to get wet from the mist. It’s a good idea to bring waterproof cases for your electronic devices.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Day Trips
From Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Cruise and Optional Journey Behind the Falls
Itinerary
START POINT
6 starting points available
1
Floral Clock
Tickets included
The first stop at Niagara River Parkway is the Floral Clock which is made up of more than 16,000 carpet plants and colourful annuals.
2
Niagara Whirlpool
Tickets included
You will then make your way to the Niagara Whirlpool which is a natural phenomena that makes for a fabulous photo op.
3
Maple Leaf Place
Tickets included
A food stop at Maple Leaf Place follows where you can try some delicious locally made maple syrup.
4
Hornblower Cruise
Tickets included
Next up is the main attraction, the Hornblower Cruise. Sail along the Niagara River and see the thundering Niagara Falls from various vantage points and up close.
5
Journey Behind the Falls
Tickets included (based on selection)
Add on the Journey Behind the Falls experience for a thrilling behind-the-scenes experience as you walk through interconnected tunnels that lead you right behind the Horseshoe Falls.
6
Skylon Tower
Tickets included (based on selection)
You can choose to upgrade you tickets to include entry to the Skylon Tower's observation deck which gives unmatched views of the Falls from a higher vantage point.
7
END POINT
6 ending points available
1. Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre
2. Chelsea Hotel
3. Brasseurs
4. Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar Front Street
5. Tim Hortons
6. 2100 Hurontario St, Mississauga
Don’t just visit Niagara Falls; get up close to it aboard the Hornblower Cruise on this day tour.
- Everything you get: With round-trip AC coach transfers from Toronto, enjoy a scenic ride with live commentary. Stops on the way include Floral Clock, Niagara Whirlpool Rapids, & Maple Leaf Place for maple syrup tasting. Take the Hornblower Cruise for a close-up experience of the Falls before exploring the area at your own pace.
- Why choose this: Prioritise having a good time on your day trip over spending hours planning, booking tickets, or figuring out transport on this tour from Toronto.
- Upgrades: Additionally, you can opt to upgrade to the Journey Behind the Falls experience and Skylon Tower observation deck for a more wholesome experience.
Don’t just visit Niagara Falls; get up close to it aboard the Hornblower Cruise on this day tour.
- Everything you get: With round-trip AC coach transfers from Toronto, enjoy a scenic ride with live commentary. Stops on the way include Floral Clock, Niagara Whirlpool Rapids, & Maple Leaf Place for maple syrup tasting. Take the Hornblower Cruise for a close-up experience of the Falls before exploring the area at your own pace.
- Why choose this: Prioritise having a good time on your day trip over spending hours planning, booking tickets, or figuring out transport on this tour from Toronto.
- Upgrades: Additionally, you can opt to upgrade to the Journey Behind the Falls experience and Skylon Tower observation deck for a more wholesome experience.
Inclusions
- Round-trip transfers from Toronto in an AC coach
- Skip-the-line-tickets to the Hornblower Cruise (not available in winter months will be replaced by other options)
- Visit to the Floral Clock
- Visit to the Niagara Whirlpool
- English or German speaking tour guide
- Free time for self-exploration
- Skip-the-line-tickets to the Journey Behind the Falls (Optional)
- Entry to Skylon Tower (Optional)
- Here are the pickup options and times in Toronto: Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre (7:40am), Chelsea Hotel (7:45am), Brasseurs - Toronto (7:50am), Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar Front Street (8:10am), Tim Hortons 340 Front St (8:20am), and 2100 Hurontario St, Mississauga (8:30am).
- The return time is subject to change based on traffic and drop-off locations.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Day Trips
From Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Journey Behind the Falls and/or Skylon Tower
Itinerary
START POINT
6 starting points available
A/C Bus
1
Floral Clock
Tickets included
Your first stop is at the Niagara Parks' Floral Clock. The clock that measures 40 feet in diameter is filled with more than 16,000 carpet plants and colourful annuals making for a great photo op.
2
Niagara Whirlpool
Tickets included
You will head on to see the Niagara Whirlpool which is formed at the end of the rapids where the gorge abruptly turns counterclockwise creating a mesmerizing natural phenomena.
3
Maple Leaf Place
Tickets included
A stop at Maple Leaf Place will follow where you can taste some locally made maple syrup and fudge. You can also choose to join in for an ice wine tasting at an additional cost of $14 per person.
4
Skylon Tower
Tickets included
If you choose to visit the Skylon Tower, you will be taken to its observation deck 775 feet above the ground that provides a mesmerizing 360-degree view of Niagara Falls and the surrounding region.
5
Journey Behind the Falls
Tickets included
Alternatively, the thrilling Journey Behind the Falls experience takes you 125 feet below through the Niagara River's bedrock to tunnels that overlook the Horseshoe Falls from right behind the thundering water.
6
Clifton Hill
Free Admission
Take your time to walk around the neighbourhood to enjoy the atmosphere by the Falls. Grab a local meal, walk down Clifton Hill, or simply relax and marvel at the Falls views.
7
END POINT
6 ending points available
1. Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre
2. Chelsea Hotel
3. Brasseurs
4. Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar Front Street
5. Tim Hortons
6. 2100 Hurontario St, Mississauga
Experience Niagara Falls up close with behind-the-falls or observation deck access on this day trip from Toronto.
- Everything you get: Your journey from Toronto will be in a comfortable AC coach through a scenic route with engaging commentary en route. Visit the Floral Clock, Niagara Whirlpool Rapids and savor locally made maple syrup and fudge at Maple Leaf Place. See the thunderous power of the falls from far above at the Skylon Tower observation deck or even from right behind in the Journey Behind the Falls experience. Enjoy free time to explore Niagara Falls at your leisure before returning to Toronto.
- Why choose this: This tour offers seamless transportation, priority access to the two most popular attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada, and free time for personal exploration, ensuring a well-rounded Niagara Falls experience.
- Upgrades: An optional ice wine tasting experience is available at $14 per person (payable at the venue) to enhance your visit with a taste of local flavors.
Experience Niagara Falls up close with behind-the-falls or observation deck access on this day trip from Toronto.
- Everything you get: Your journey from Toronto will be in a comfortable AC coach through a scenic route with engaging commentary en route. Visit the Floral Clock, Niagara Whirlpool Rapids and savor locally made maple syrup and fudge at Maple Leaf Place. See the thunderous power of the falls from far above at the Skylon Tower observation deck or even from right behind in the Journey Behind the Falls experience. Enjoy free time to explore Niagara Falls at your leisure before returning to Toronto.
- Why choose this: This tour offers seamless transportation, priority access to the two most popular attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada, and free time for personal exploration, ensuring a well-rounded Niagara Falls experience.
- Upgrades: An optional ice wine tasting experience is available at $14 per person (payable at the venue) to enhance your visit with a taste of local flavors.
Inclusions
- Round-trip transportation from Toronto
- Skip-the-line-tickets to Skylon Tower (based on option selected)
- Skip-the-line-tickets to the Journey Behind the Falls (based on option selected)
- Visit to the Floral Clock
- Visit to the Niagara Whirlpool
- English or German speaking tour guide
- Free time for self-exploration
- The pickup options in Toronto are: Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre (7:40am), Chelsea Hotel (7:45am), Brasseurs - Toronto (7:50am), Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar Front Street (8:10am), Tim Hortons 340 Front St (8:20am), and 2100 Hurontario St, Mississauga (8:30am).
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Day Trips
From Toronto: All Inclusive Niagara Falls Day Tour with Cruise, Journey Behind The Falls, and Skylon Tower
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION9 hours
START POINT
6 starting points available
A/C Bus
1
Floral Clock
Tickets included
Sightseeing & Photography
A/C Bus
2
Skylon Tower
Tickets included
Sightseeing & Photography
3
Niagara Whirlpool Rapids
Tickets included
View the Niagara Whirlpool, formed at the end of the rapids, where the gorge switches abruptly to turn counter-clockwise, caused by the river's sudden change of direction. A mesmerizing sight to behold.
4
Maple Leaf Place
Tickets included (based on selection)
Opt in for a delicious maple syrup and fudge tasting at the Maple Leaf Place, or indulge in an ice wine tasting session for an additional CAD 14 per person. If you want to skip this, you can choose to head straight to the Falls to have more free time for exploration.
5
Niagara Falls
1 attractions
Tickets included
Board the Hornblower Cruise to get multiple up-close viewpoints of Niagara Falls as you feel the immense power, beauty, and mist.
Things to do
Journey Behind the Falls
Tickets included
Descend 125 feet of bedrock to tunnels that overlook Horseshoe Falls. Watch them crash from directly underneath while you're at the Journey Behind the Falls. Return to Niagara Falls after your adventure and enjoy free time exploring the area at your leisure.
Cruise Ship
6
END POINT
6 ending points available
1. Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre, an IHG Hotel
2. Chelsea Hotel
3. 3 Brasseurs Toronto
4. Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar
5. Tim Hortons, 340 Front Street West
6. 2100 Hurontario St.
Experience Niagara Falls on a cruise with behind-the-falls access, and Skylon Tower views.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a guided small-group tour with round-trip transport from Toronto, skip-the-line entry to the Hornblower Cruise (seasonal), and a 125-foot descent into tunnels at Journey Behind the Falls, plus stunning views from Skylon Tower. Optional maple syrup and fudge tasting included.
- Why choose this: Explore Niagara Falls hassle-free with live guides in English or German, priority access to attractions, and unforgettable close-up views of the falls.
Experience Niagara Falls on a cruise with behind-the-falls access, and Skylon Tower views.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a guided small-group tour with round-trip transport from Toronto, skip-the-line entry to the Hornblower Cruise (seasonal), and a 125-foot descent into tunnels at Journey Behind the Falls, plus stunning views from Skylon Tower. Optional maple syrup and fudge tasting included.
- Why choose this: Explore Niagara Falls hassle-free with live guides in English or German, priority access to attractions, and unforgettable close-up views of the falls.
Inclusions
- Round-trip transportation from Toronto
- Skip-the-line-tickets to the Hornblower Cruise (not available in winter months - replaced by other options)
- Skip-the-line-tickets to the Journey Behind the Falls
- Skylon Tower
- Visit to the Floral Clock
- Visit to the Niagara Whirlpool
- Tour guide providing local, historical commentary along the way
- Free time for self-exploration
- Live tour guide: English, German (upon availability)
Exclusions
- Food and drinks
- Ice wine tasting ($14 per person)
Additional information
Pick up points and timings:
- Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre, an IHG Hotel, 30 Carlton St.: 7:40am
- Chelsea Hotel, Toronto, 33 Gerrard St W: 7:45am
- 3 Brasseurs - Toronto, 277 Yonge St: 7:50am
- Scaddabush Italian Kitchen & Bar Front Street, 200 Front St W: 8:10am
- Tim Hortons, 340 Front St W: 8:20am
- 2100 Hurontario St, Mississauga: 8:30am
What to bring
- Carry a waterproof jacket and bag with you to protect yourself and your belongings from the splashes at the Falls.
What's not allowed
- Food & beverages and sharp metallic tools or objects are not allowed in this experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
The Winter Festival of Lights transforms Niagara Falls, Ontario, into a dazzling winter wonderland. It is Canada's largest outdoor lights festival, featuring over 3 million lights and more than 75 spectacular displays along an eight-kilometer route that includes the Niagara Parkway and Dufferin Islands. Stay on this page to find out all you need to know about this annual event that lights up Niagara Falls.
Essential information
Event duration: November 16, 2024 to January 5, 2025
Edition: This year marks the 42nd anniversary of the festival.
Lights & displays: Over 3.5 million lights and more than 75 displays
Location: Niagara Parkway, Dufferin Islands, and various Niagara Falls tourist spots, Canada.
Admission: Free entry
2024 display routes
The lights that will guide you through Niagara Falls
See all photos
Fun facts
- From 1992 to 2013, the festival featured a partnership with Disney, showcasing over 20 animated displays based on Disney classics, creating a magical atmosphere that included character appearances during opening ceremonies.
- The festival has its own mascots called the Misty Kids, who serve as goodwill ambassadors who interact with families and children at various events.
- The festival has significantly increased in length over the years. It now runs for 51 nights, compared to its earlier years when it lasted only a few weeks.
- The festival emphasizes sustainability by using energy-efficient LED lights for its displays, reducing its environmental impact while still creating an enjoyable visual experience for visitors.
Plan your visit
Timings
Getting there
Accessibility
Facilities
Light displays: 5pm to 12 midnight
Sparkling Winter Lights Falls Illumination: 6pm, 7pm and 8pm
Fireworks:
- November 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 at 8pm
- December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 to 31 at 8pm
- Dec 31 at 12 midnight (New year’s eve)
- January 1 to 5 at 8pm
You can start your walk through the light displays at any of these attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada.
- Grand View marketplace: 5920 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada | Find on Maps
- Queen Victoria Place: 6345 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6S6, Canada | Find on Maps
- Clifton Hill: Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada | Find on Maps
- Lundy’s Lane: Niagara Falls, ON L2G 5J1, Canada | Find on Maps
- Dufferin Islands: 6345 Dufferin Isle Rd, Niagara Falls Ontario | Find on Maps
- Niagara Parkway: Niagara River Pkwy, Regional Municipality of Niagara, ON, Canada | Find on Maps
- Fallsview Boulevard: Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada | Find on Maps
Parking: Paid parking is available throughout the city including at the Falls Parking Lot, Skylon Tower, Clifton Hill, and Dufferin Islands.
Accessible pathways: The festival features well-maintained and accessible pathways throughout key locations, including Queen Victoria Park and Dufferin Islands, allowing easy navigation for wheelchair users.
Paid parking: Designated parking spaces are available near major festival attractions across the city.
Public transportation: The local public transit system offers accessible buses that can transport you to and from the festival sites.
Toilets: Accessible restroom facilities are provided at various locations throughout the festival area.
Dining outlets: Several restaurants including The Secret Garden Restaurant and Zappi's Pizza & Pasta are easily accessible from the light display areas.
Things to do nearby
Hornblower Cruises
This immersive boat tour takes you so close to Niagara Falls, that you can experience its thunderous roar and refreshing mist firsthand. The signature "Voyage to the Falls" tour lasts approximately 20 minutes and takes you near the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
Journey Behind the Falls
Descend 125 feet through tunnels to view the Horseshoe Falls from behind and below in the Journey Behind the Falls experience. This popular attraction has incredible views from observation decks and portals, showcasing the powerful flow of water crashing down just a few feet away from where you’re standing.
Niagara SkyWheel
The Niagara SkyWheel is a towering Ferris wheel that rises 175 feet above Clifton Hill. It gives you a bird’s eye view of Niagara Falls and the surrounding area from climate-controlled gondolas.
Frequently asked questions about the Winter Festival of Lights
When will the Winter Festival of Lights take place this year?
The festival will run from November 16, 2024, to January 5, 2025, for its 42nd year.
How much does it cost to attend the Winter Festival of Lights?
Admission is free to see the light displays across the city, with optional paid amenities like parking and nearby dining.
What are the main display areas within the festival?
Popular display routes include Grand View, Queen Victoria Park, Dufferin Islands, Niagara Parkway, and Fallsview Boulevard.
Is the festival wheelchair accessible?
Yes, areas like Queen Victoria Park and Dufferin Islands feature accessible pathways, making it easy for wheelchair users to navigate.
Can I take photos of the displays and fireworks?
Yes, photography is allowed throughout the festival, making it a great chance for memorable photo opps.
What’s the ideal time to visit for fewer crowds?
Weekdays and earlier in the evenings around 5pm are typically less crowded, offering a quieter experience while still letting you catch the lights against a sunset.
How long does it take to see all the displays?
Plan for around 2 to 3 hours to enjoy the full festival route comfortably, depending on your walking pace.
Are pets allowed at the festival?
Leashed pets are welcome in outdoor areas throughout the festival.
