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Let it Glow: A Celebration of Light
The City of St. Catharines invites you to experience the magic of the 4th annual Let it Glow: A Celebration of Light. From November 23, 2024, to January 5, 2025, the city will be illuminated with over 50 dazzling light installations across Rennie Park, Port Dalhousie, and downtown. Enjoy free family-friendly activities, including opening night entertainment, Santa photos, and a special New Year's Eve public skate. Explore enchanting light displays, festive workshops, and community initiatives that bring holiday cheer to all.
What to Expect
City-wide light festival with interactive installations
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Parking: Information regarding parking for specific event locations is not detailed, but general parking information for downtown St. Catharines is available on the city's website.
- Accessibility: The event is described as an outdoor festival with light displays. Specific accessibility details are not provided, but general city accessibility information can be found on their website.
- Pets: No specific pet policy mentioned
Other Christmas Events Near St. Catharines
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, photographers
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low to moderate (walking and exploring)
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High (outdoor event)
Special Events & Promotions
- Opening night entertainment with DJ, characters, and buskers
- Complimentary hot chocolate on opening night
- Complimentary photos with Santa
- Lakeside Park Carousel rides on opening night
- Kids Winter Workshop ('Grinch Tree' creation)
- Mitten Tree Campaign for winter clothing donations
- Holiday Public Skates and Swims
- New Year's Eve Public Skate with glow-in-the-dark experience
- Holiday Cocktail Trail at local restaurants
Location
Event Details
Duration
Nightly from 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Port Dalhousie, Downtown St. Catharines
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of St. Catharines
Food & Drink
Complimentary hot chocolate is offered on opening night. Several restaurants in Port Dalhousie and Downtown St. Catharines are participating in a 'Holiday Cocktail Trail' with suggested food pairings.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Check the official event website for the most up-to-date schedules and specific location details for each light display and activity.
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, as many of the attractions are outdoors and involve walking through parks and downtown areas.
- Consider visiting on weeknights to avoid larger crowds, especially at popular photo spots like the City Hall tree and the Glowflake.
- Take advantage of the 'Holiday Cocktail Trail' to enjoy festive drinks and appetizers at local restaurants while exploring the downtown lights.
- Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the magical light displays; many installations are designed for photos, especially the interactive ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates and times for Let it Glow?
The festival runs from November 23, 2024, to January 5, 2025. The light displays are programmed to operate nightly from 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Is there an admission fee for Let it Glow?
No, Let it Glow is a free event for all visitors.
Where are the main light display locations?
Key locations include Rennie Park in Port Dalhousie, City Hall, St. Paul Street, James Street Alley, and the Meridian Centre's Rankin Bridge in downtown St. Catharines.
Are there any special events happening during the festival?
Yes, opening night features live entertainment and giveaways. There are also opportunities for Santa photos, a children's workshop, holiday public skates, and a New Year's Eve skate.
Can I touch the light displays?
No, for safety and to preserve the displays, visitors are kindly asked not to touch or move the lights or electrical cords.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.