8 Dazzling Walk-Through Christmas Light Displays Across Canada
Updated: Nov. 23, 2021
’Tis the season to celebrate! Get into the festive spirit with a visit to these impressive light displays.
Christmas Panorama in Simcoe, Ontario
Head to the Simcoe Christmas Panorama in Norfolk County for a spectacular show that the entire community helps to host. Now in its 63rd year, Panorama is the oldest light festival in Ontario and attracts as many as 60,000 visitors annually. In addition to Panorama’s signature River of Lights—hundreds of thousands of lights displayed in downtown parks and along the Lynn River—nearby residents are also encouraged to flex their creativity and decorate their homes as part of the tour.
When: December 4 to January 2, 2022
Cost: Free (Donations accepted)
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Winter Wonder Forest in Edmonton, Alberta
Get into a yuletide mood with a stroll through this campground-turned-enchanted forest. A festive assemblage of light displays, ice sculptures and wood carvings transform seven acres at Winter Wonder Forest into a holiday haven. You can book your ticket to coincide with events like musical performances, and a chance to say a quick hello to Santa, Mrs. Claus and the reindeer. Make the outing even more special with a ride on the Holiday Express Train, or take a scenic tour of the countryside on a magical horse-drawn sleigh.
When: November 25 to January 9, 2022
Cost: $17.50-$23.50
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Night of Lights in Vaughan, Ontario
If you can’t get enough of holiday tunes, this walk-through Christmas light display is not to be missed. At Night of Lights, more than one million LED lights are animated and synchronized to your favourite songs of the season to create a dazzling 45-minute dance party. Head to the fair afterwards to grab a few gifts from the artisan marketplace or warm up next to the fire with steaming cups of mulled wine and cider.
When: November 26 to January 2, 2022
Cost: $12.99-$19.99
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Canyon Lights in North Vancouver, British Columbia
The more adventurous traveller will want to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park for one of the most breathtaking light displays in the country—230 feet above the forest floor. The famous bridge is aglow from end to end with a multi-colour display that’ll take visitors on an unforgettable journey across the illuminated Capilano River. Between the tallest Christmas trees in the world to the awe-inspiring Arc de Lumina light tunnel along the Cliffwalk, Canyon Lights is a Christmas light display unlike any other.
When: November 20 to January 23, 2022
Cost: $18.95-$54.95
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Zoo Lights in Winnipeg, Manitoba
After dark, Zoo Lights illuminates the Assiniboine Park Zoo with stunning displays, along with live entertainment and a bounty of delectable treats. Take your special someone to the iconic “LOVE” sign for a romantic photo opp and follow the glittering tunnel of lights through the Tundra Trail. After you’re done feasting your eyes, fill your stomach with an assortment of goodies from the food tents including mini donuts, warm pretzels and the ultimate winter comfort food—veggie chili.
When: November 26 to January 2, 2022
Cost: $12.75
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Village Illuminé Desjardins in Drummondville, Quebec
For the holidays, the historic Village Québécois d’Antan hosts a charming carnival of lights and sounds. Be prepared to be wowed by the animated displays in the windows of period buildings and even chat with a cast of Christmas characters to help Mrs. Clause solve a festive mystery. Complete the evening with a sleigh ride through the village and a taste of the old-fashioned donuts cooked on-site.
When: December 3 to January 2, 2022
Cost: $21-$27
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Evergreen Festival in Halifax, Nova Scotia
Usher in winter on the east coast with this showcase celebrating the best of Nova Scotian culture, food and art. Plan your own walking tour through the city to take in Evergreen Bright, a trail of twinkling lights and storefront displays throughout the downtowns of Halifax and Dartmouth. Watch the Old Dartmouth Post Office come to life with a projected light show, swing by the illuminated Halifax Public Garden and delight in the rainbow Tunnel of Hope along the waterfront. In-between, enjoy family-friendly activities like nautical rope wreath demonstrations and performances from local up-and-coming musicians.
When: November 27 to January 1, 2022
Cost: Free
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The Rochford Family Christmas Woods Walk in Alberton, Prince Edward Island
Take an enchanting walk in the woods with a visit to this merry and bright family-run holiday tradition. Every year, the Rochford family decks out their property with a captivating assortment of displays and string lights as a gift to the community. Warm up by the fire pits and roast your own marshmallows for a sweet end to the night. Tip: Come by after a fresh snowfall for a true winter wonderland experience.
When: TBD
Cost: Free
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