St. Catharines Christmas Lights 2026

8 christmas lights in St. Catharines and nearby.

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St. Catharines hosts a luminous holiday season. For impressive displays, consider the large-scale Burlington Festival of Lights, or for a more intimate experience, the free Celebration of Lights Contest in Grimsby.

Explore local light displays, including those in surrounding Niagara towns, with various experiences to suit your preferences.

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All Christmas Lights Around St. Catharines

Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Holiday House Tour

Niagara, ON 11 mi from St. Catharines
$$$
Dec 4 – Dec 5

Self-guided holiday tour of six decorated Niagara-on-the-Lake homes.

Visitors embark on a self-guided tour exploring six historic and contemporary private residences decorated for Christmas by local designers and florists. The experience includes access to annual cultural and heritage sites, complimentary tastings from featured wineries and a distillery, and...

Holiday MarketFamily FriendlyCommunity Celebration
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Safari Lights

Stevensville, ON 17 mi from St. Catharines
Nov 20 – Jan 3, 2027

Drive-thru holiday light adventure across three kilometres of Safari Niagara.

Visitors journey through three kilometres of park trails transformed by more than one million twinkling lights. The drive-thru route features immersive light tunnels, vibrant animated displays, and illuminated animal figures. Guests enjoy the spectacle from the warmth of their own...

Holiday Light DisplaysDrive Through DisplaysFamily Friendly
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Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights

Niagara Falls, ON 10 mi from St. Catharines
Free
Nov 14 – Jan 10, 2027

Canada's largest free outdoor light festival with three million lights.

Visitors can explore an extensive outdoor illumination route featuring three million lights, interactive exhibits, and large-scale displays. The festival offers views of the illuminated Falls along with fireworks displays over the water. Guests can also visit Queen Victoria Park to...

Holiday Light DisplaysFree EventFamily Friendly
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Burlington Festival of Lights

Burlington, ON 30 mi from St. Catharines
Free
Nov 27 – Jan 3, 2027

Waterfront winter wonderland featuring more than 60 glowing light displays.

Visitors can experience Burlington's waterfront illuminated into a sparkling winter wonderland with more than 60 glowing light displays. Guests can stroll along the glowing park pathways, enjoy photo-worthy holiday backdrops, and view the 25-foot tree. The display can be enjoyed...

Holiday Light DisplaysFestive DecorationsFamily Friendly
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Merry and Bright in Downtown Welland: Santa Claus Parade and Tree Lighting

Welland, ON 12 mi from St. Catharines
Free
2026 dates TBA

Santa Parade, Tree Lighting, and Chili Cookoff in one event.

Get ready for a magical evening in downtown Welland as they host the Merry and Bright celebration! This festive event combines the beloved Santa Claus Parade, the enchanting Civic Square Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a spirited chili cookoff. Join the...

Santa VisitsTree LightingCommunity Celebration
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Parties

1 of 10 Victorian Nutcracker Feast Niagara-on-the-Lake

Festive themed dinner featuring live Christmas carols at a communal table

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Markets

1 of 10 Yule Faire 2026: A Winter Solstice Celebration St. Catharines

Winter solstice market featuring over 70 handmade vendors and tarot readings.

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Shows

1 of 30 Handel's Messiah St. Catharines

Performed on period instruments in a historically informed style.

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Unique & Unusual

1 of 32 Candlelight Stroll Niagara-on-the-Lake

Join an enchanting candlelit procession led by a horse-drawn carriage.

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Find Christmas Lights on Our Map!

See all light displays and installations in one place.

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St. Catharines Christmas events map - Click to view interactive map

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Christmas light displays in and around St. Catharines?

The top displays include the Let It Glow festival with over 50 illuminated installations at Rennie Park in Port Dalhousie and vibrant light displays throughout downtown St. Catharines. These are well-known for their interactive and family-friendly features.

Are there drive-through Christmas light options or only walkable displays in St. Catharines?

St. Catharines primarily offers walkable light displays, such as those at Rennie Park and downtown areas. While drive-through light shows are popular nearby, the city focuses on interactive walking trails and neighborhood displays.

When do the Christmas lights typically start in St. Catharines?

The Christmas lights usually start in late November, with the Let It Glow festival kicking off around November 23 and running through early January, providing a festive atmosphere throughout the holiday season.

Are there free Christmas light displays available in St. Catharines?

Yes, many of the Let It Glow light displays are free to visit, including installations at Rennie Park and downtown St. Catharines. The festival offers a self-guided experience with no admission fee for most areas.

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