Winter Nights, City Lights
Visitors can experience Esplanade Park illuminated with festive lights, art installations, and fireworks, alongside a community tree lighting. The celebration features live entertainment, roaming characters, and photo opportunities throughout the grounds. Guests can also browse a holiday vendor market, visit food vendors, and write letters to Santa.
What to Expect
Festive lights, fireworks, tree lighting, and a holiday market in Pickering.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Pickering
Food & Drink
Food vendors will be present at the event.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 5:30 - 8:30 pm.
- Pets: Dogs that do not do well with people, crowds, loud noises, or other dogs are encouraged to stay home. Dogs at City events must comply with the Responsible Pet Ownership By-law and Dog Owners Liability Act; dogs with characteristics similar to a Pit Bull under the act must wear a muzzle.
Tips & Advice
- Leave dogs that struggle with people, crowds, loud noises or other dogs at home, and remember that Pit Bull-type dogs must wear a muzzle at City events.
- Dress warmly for an evening outdoors in Esplanade Park, where the tree lighting, art illuminations and fireworks all take place after the sun goes down.
- Bring the kids ready to write a letter to Santa, since Letters to Santa is one of the evening's activities alongside the roaming characters and photo ops.
- Expect City photographers and videographers on site, because photos and video taken at the event may be used in future City of Pickering promotions.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it good for kids?
Yes. It's a family celebration, and the City invites everyone to bring the whole family out for some holiday fun.
What is there to see and do?
Esplanade Park lights up with festive lights and fireworks, and there's a tree lighting. You'll also find live entertainment, art illuminations, photo ops, roaming characters, a holiday vendor market, food vendors and Letters to Santa.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs must follow the City's Responsible Pet Ownership By-law and the Dog Owners Liability Act, and dogs with Pit Bull characteristics must wear a muzzle. Leave dogs at home if they don't do well with people, crowds, loud noises or other dogs.
How do I become a vendor?
Pickering uses one vendor application form for all City-led festivals and events in 2026, except Petapolooza. Applications for Winter Nights, City Lights were due Monday, September 28, 2026, and selected vendors hear back by Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
Will I be photographed?
Possibly. City photographers and videographers may take photos and video at the event and use them in future City of Pickering promotions without compensation. Questions go to the City Clerk.
More Christmas Events Near Pickering
More Christmas Events near Pickering
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.