5 magical holiday light displays to see near Toronto
Published December 13, 2024 at 1:42 pm
As the days get shorter, get a boost with one of the many holiday light displays in the Greater Toronto Area.
Those looking for something to do over the Christmas holidays may want to check out one of these events near Toronto.
Drive through a tunnel of light, enjoy a magic forest or see huge Christmas installations — these light events are a great way to chase away the winter blues.
Most are close to Toronto but be sure to check out ticket requirements — many of these events require guests to buy tickets in advance.
Here are five holiday light displays to see near Toronto:
Magical Christmas Forest
What: Kortright Centre creates a light display in the forest for a magical winter wonderland. There are also crafts, activities, horse-drawn wagon rides and treats. Kids can enjoy a visit with Santa in his cabin.
Where: Kortright Centre for Conservation, 9550 Pine Valley Dr., Vaughan
When: Dec. 13, 14, 15 and Dec. 18 to 23
Tickets: $38.81 for adults. Must purchase in advance here.
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Winter Wonders
What: Royal Botanical Garden’s Hendrie Park transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring lights, festive installations and enchanting displays.
Where: 680 Plains Rd. W., Burlington.
When: Thursday to Sunday, Dec. 5 to Jan. 5
Tickets: $20 for adults. Purchase in advance here.
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illumi
What: Dubbed the world’s biggest light and sound show, guests can wander amongst snowmen, candy canes, reindeer, gnomes, and giant snowflakes, and step under the illumi Tree of Lights.
Where: 7174 Derry Crest Dr., Mississauga
When: From 5 p.m. daily (closed Dec. 16 and 17) until Jan. 5
Tickets: Adults $34.95. Purchase tickets in advance here.
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51-night festival
What: The largest free outdoor light festival in Canada features displays throughout the City of Niagara Falls. Features include 100 displays, weekend fireworks, a special illumination on the falls, a Santa meet-and-greet, the new Misty Lodge and a hot chocolate trail.
Where: Niagara Falls along the Niagara Parkway, Dufferin Islands and across the tourist districts. Areas with displays include Grand View, Queen Victoria Place, Lundy’s Lane, Clifton Hill and Fallsview Boulevard.
When: Nov. 16 to Jan. 5
Tickets: Free event, find out more here.
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Journey into Enchantment
What: This Christmas light show with over two million lights illuminating a two-kilometre route features holiday characters, a drive-thru tunnel, a transition from 2D to 3D displays and musical lights. This show is in two different cities at the west and east ends of the GTA.
Where: 50 Alexander’s Crossing, Ajax, and Dixie Mall, 1250 South Service Rd., Mississauga
When: Thursday to Sunday until Jan. 1
Tickets: $35 per car. Purchase in advance here.
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