Winter Festival of Lights Niagara Falls 2026: Dates & Route
Three million lights along the Niagara Parkway and Dufferin Islands. Free. Runs mid-November through early January.
In This Guide
What the Festival Is
The Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights is one of Canada's largest outdoor light festivals. Over three million lights along the Niagara Parkway, through Dufferin Islands, and around the falls viewing areas. Runs mid-November through early January.
The Route
Three areas: Dufferin Islands (10-acre park south of falls, walk-through displays), Niagara Parkway (drive-through along the gorge), and the Falls Illumination (extended hours, colours coordinated with festival). Combined with ice formations, this is peak visual Niagara.
Practical Tips
Free to view. Dufferin Islands parking $5-10. WEGO runs festival routes on weekends. Weekday evenings are significantly less crowded. Best viewing 6-8 PM. Dress for cold — gorge wind is real. Several hotels offer festival-season packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Winter Festival of Lights?
Mid-November through early January. Exact dates announced each October.
Is the Winter Festival of Lights free?
Yes. All light displays are free. Parking near Dufferin Islands costs $5-10.