Santa is coming early this year! While most municipalities will be visited later in December by the man in red, check out these Santa Claus parades happening this month:
Thorold
Saturday, November 25 from 4:00 PM
Niagara Falls:
Saturday, November 18 from 3:30 PM
Tree Lighting at 5:15 PM
Santa Claus Meet & Greet 5:30 PM
West Lincoln:
Saturday, November 25 starting at 5:00 PM
Welland:
Saturday, November 25 from 5:00 PM
Tree Lighting after the parade
Merry Chili Christmas chili cook-off after the tree lighting
Winter Festival of Lights: See Niagara Falls’ Magical Illumination
The annual Winter Festival of Lights is back to illuminate the city of Niagara Falls with over 3 million lights and gorgeous interactive displays. Starting November 18, the festival runs until January 7 and features a hot chocolate trail, meet and greet with Santa, and a fantastic 26 nights of special fireworks.
Creating a winter wonderland along the Niagara Parkway, Dufferin Islands, and various tourist districts, the largest illumination festival is back in its 41st year and has grown to become one of the most popular seasonal attractions in the region. This year’s festival includes Canadian wildlife displays, a 40ft light tunnel, an illuminated castle, and the two-story tall Zimmerman Fountain.
A very special illumination light show called “Sparkling Winter Lights” has been created for this festival and was inspired by winter in the Canadian north. Every night, the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls will come to life and set the stage for the nightly fireworks display.
Families can also enjoy exploring the hot chocolate trail with over 22 stops and 36 unique flavours to try. Both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options are available along this self-guided trail.
Little ones can also meet Santa Claus on select nights of the festival at the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse. Don’t forget your complimentary photo with Santa!
The festival is family-friendly and fun for all ages. This self-guided experience can be enjoyed by vehicle, on foot, or even from one of the many hotels in the area (check out our Best Deals section to find local hotel promos).
