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Winter Festival of Lights: See Niagara Falls turn into an illuminated dreamland
Niagara Falls
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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.
