Alight At Night Returns to Upper Canada Village for the Holidays

Image via Cole Ciarlello

If you’re looking for something festive to do in Ottawa this holiday season, look no further than Alight the Night at Upper Canada Village.

Roughly one hour from Ottawa is where you’ll find Upper Canada Village’s Alight the Night festival. Hailed as Eastern Ontario’s biggest outdoor lights festival, this annual event features over one million lights, creating a true winter wonderland experience. 

Step back in time and marvel at heritage buildings, trees, and the fences of Upper Canada Village, all of which have been covered in glittering lights. 

The event also features live Christmas music, BeaverTails, and other food and drink. (Note that proof of vaccination is not required to attend the event but is required for indoor dining at the Harvest Barn).

The Toy Train returns in 2021 after being canceled due to the pandemic last year. This family-friendly ride will take you on a 20-minute journey around the park.

Santa Claus will also be on-site, busy in his workshop (though not too busy to take photos with young ones).

New this year is Storybook Nook, a place where guests are invited to grab a hot drink, cozy up by the fireplace, and watch a two minute animation made by graphic design graduate Emily A. Keller.

As the event is entirely outdoors, it’s COVID-friendly. Tickets can be purchased online in advance and cost $15 for adults (children under 4 years of age go free). 

Alight the Night at Upper Canada Village is open from Thursdays to Sundays until December 12th. From December 16th to January 1st, it’s open nightly from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm, with the exception of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.  

If you’ll be in Ottawa this November or December, then we suggest getting your holiday shopping done early by visiting any of the Christmas markets listed above. And if you need a place to stay during your visit, know that you’re always welcome at the Best Western Plus Ottawa City Centre.