Plan Your Visit to the Niagara Festival of Lights 2023

Hey there, fellow wanderers! Guess who got to soak up the holiday vibes at the Niagara Festival of Lights 2023? Yep, yours truly! Brace yourself for a chatty rundown of my evening in this twinkling wonderland along the Niagara Parkway.

Grand View Marketplace – Where the Magic Starts

So, imagine strolling into Grand View Marketplace and being hit with this radiant welcome from the Falls. It’s like they flipped a switch on pure enchantment. The paths are all lit up, and everywhere you look, there’s holiday magic in the air. I’m talking about dazzling decor and lights that could make a grinch crack a smile.

Queen Victoria Place – Winter Vibes on Point

Next stop, Queen Victoria Place. The Falls in the background? Check. Winter wonderland vibes? Double-check. I felt like a kid in a candy store, wandering through these winter sets, saying hi to giant moose and polar bears all lit up. And don’t even get me started on the hot beverage pitstop at Queen Victoria Place Café – major cozy points earned.

Featured Installations at Queen Victoria Place:

• Optik: This one’s like an art boss created by The Urban Conga and Serge Maheu. Fancy, right?
• Mi Casa, Your Casa 2.0: Crafted by Esrawe+ Cadena, it’s a must-see gem.
• Impulse: An interactive brainchild by Lateral Office and CS Design. Catch it on specific dates for an extra kick.

Table Rock Centre – Selfies and Sweet Treats

Now, if you’re into selfies (who isn’t?), Table Rock Centre is your spot. The Canadian Horseshoe Falls in the backdrop are like the ultimate selfie buddy. No filters needed. And if you’re feeling chilly, warm up with the exclusive hot chocolate feature at Table Rock House Restaurant. Trust me; it’s a game-changer on the festival’s Hot Chocolate Trail.

Dufferin Islands – Nature’s Art Gallery

Time for a nature fix at Dufferin Islands – 10 acres of pure goodness. Drive through or take a stroll; either way, you’ll be surrounded by nature-inspired displays that’ll make your inner child jump for joy. It’s like Mother Nature went all Picasso on this place.

Floral Showhouse – Poinsettias and Santa Selfies

I swung by the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse for the Annual Poinsettia Show. Cyclamen, amaryllis, orchids – you name it, they got it.

Enjoy a special photo opportunity with Santa Claus and Winter Festival of Lights goodwill ambassadors, the Misty Kids, on select dates throughout the festival: Santa Claus: December 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 – 6:00 to 8:00 PM

Niagara Parks Power Station – Fun Times and Lights

Quick pitstop at Sandie Bellows Plaza in front of the Niagara Parks Power Station. Snapped some festive pics, played a piano with my feet (yes, that happened), and checked out “The Power of Play” – a cool new interactive thingy. And don’t forget “Currents: Niagara’s Power Transformed” – a sound and light show that’s a total game-changer before it goes dark on January 1, 2024.

Parking Tips – Where to Park for the Niagara Lights Magic

Grab a spot across from Table Rock Centre, the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, Floral Showhouse, Queen Victoria Place, or Rapidsview parking lots.

Psst: We have the Niagara Annual Parking Pass ($40) so we park at multiple spots to get the best of all displays.

Watch our video here:

Wrap yourself up in the magic of the Niagara Festival of Lights, peeps. It’s a winter wonderland out there, and I’m betting you’ll be making memories that’ll warm your heart for ages. Happy adventuring! 🌟✨