The holiday season in Ontario is a time of pure magic — twinkling lights, festive music, and cozy nights spent with family and friends. From glowing drive-through displays to enchanting walking trails, Ontario offers some of the most breathtaking Christmas light tours in Canada. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a family outing, these five destinations will make your holidays shine bright.
1. Winter Festival of Lights – Niagara Falls
Location: Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls
Dates: Mid-November to early January
The Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s largest and most spectacular light display. Stretching over 8 kilometres along the Niagara Parkway, this event features more than 3 million lights and dazzling displays that illuminate the falls and surrounding parks. Enjoy illuminated trees, interactive installations, and live entertainment that brings holiday cheer to life.
Why Visit: It’s completely free (donations welcome) and perfect for families, couples, and photography lovers. The combination of the falls’ mist and colorful lights creates a truly unforgettable scene.
2. Illumi – Mississauga
Location: Derrycrest Drive, Mississauga
Dates: November through January
Illumi by Cavalia transforms Mississauga into a glowing wonderland of lights and music. Spread across a massive area, this walking tour features themed universes filled with millions of LED lights, illuminated tunnels, and interactive art displays. The event includes everything from light sculptures of animals to Christmas-themed zones perfect for selfies.
Why Visit: Illumi isn’t just a light show — it’s an experience. Expect breathtaking visuals, music, and immersive storytelling that delights both kids and adults.
3. Magic of Lights – Barrie
Location: Springwater Provincial Park, Barrie
Dates: Late November to early January
If you’d rather stay warm in your car, Magic of Lights is the perfect choice. This drive-through light tour takes you through a 2-kilometre path lined with over a million twinkling lights. Classic holiday scenes like Candy Cane Lane and Snowflake Alley are synced to cheerful holiday music broadcast over your car radio.
Why Visit: It’s cozy, family-friendly, and perfect for cold nights when you don’t want to walk outdoors. Plus, part of the proceeds often goes to local charities.
4. Simcoe Christmas Panorama – Norfolk County
Location: Wellington Park, Simcoe
Dates: Late November to early January
A beloved Ontario tradition since 1958, the Simcoe Christmas Panorama transforms Wellington Park into a dazzling display of lights, animated figures, and festive decor. The walking trails wind through thousands of colorful bulbs that illuminate the snow-covered landscape, creating a storybook Christmas atmosphere.
Why Visit: Free admission, family-friendly, and deeply nostalgic — this display feels like stepping into a classic holiday movie.
5. Uxbridge Optimist Fantasy of Lights
Location: Elgin Park, Uxbridge
Dates: Early December to early January
This drive-through and walking light tour features hundreds of handcrafted displays created by local businesses and volunteers. The lights wind through the park’s pathways, creating a glowing route filled with joy and creativity. Each year brings new displays, ensuring a fresh experience every visit.
Why Visit: It’s a cozy community-driven event with a warm, welcoming feel — perfect for families who enjoy discovering local traditions.
Tips for the Perfect Christmas Lights Tour
Dress warmly: Ontario nights can get chilly — bring gloves, scarves, and hot chocolate.
Go on weekdays: Avoid crowds by visiting midweek.
Check schedules: Some tours require advance tickets or have timed entries.
Bring your camera: Many of these displays are incredibly photogenic.
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