One million lights transform a 19th-century village into a winter wonderland! Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village celebrates its 25th anniversary this season, bringing more lights, new attractions, and free youth admission to one of Eastern Ontario’s most beloved holiday traditions.
For a quarter-century, Alight at Night has drawn visitors from across the region to experience the magic of Upper Canada Village bathed in twinkling lights. This milestone 25th season features an extra 80,000 bulbs woven into the display, making the living history museum more spectacular than ever.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Alight at Night’s 25th anniversary season runs through January 15, 2026 at Upper Canada Village. Features over one million lights, a new Toy Factory experience, sound and light shows, train rides, and free admission for ages 17 and under through Canada Strong Pass.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Dates | Through January 15, 2026 |
| 📍 Location | Upper Canada Village, Morrisburg |
| 🎟️ Youth Admission | FREE (ages 17 and under) |
| ⏰ Hours | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
25th Anniversary Celebration
A Quarter Century of Magic
Alight at Night has become a cherished tradition:
- First launched 25 years ago at Upper Canada Village
- Grown from modest display to million-light extravaganza
- Draws visitors from Ottawa, Montreal, and beyond
- Creates lasting memories for multiple generations
- Anchors holiday season in Eastern Ontario
What’s New for 2025
The anniversary season brings enhancements:
- Extra 80,000 bulbs added to the display
- New Toy Factory interactive experience
- Redesigned Family Activity Centre
- Victorian Saint Nick greets visitors for photos
- Enhanced food options throughout the village
Illustrative image only.
Festival Highlights
The Light Display
Over one million lights create magic throughout the village:
- Historic buildings outlined in festive lights
- Tree displays throughout the grounds
- Themed installations tell holiday stories
- Pathways illuminated for evening strolls
- Colour-changing displays add variety
- Reflections on water multiply the magic
Sound and Light Show
Experience the spectacular show at Crysler Hall:
- Thousands of colorful lights synchronized to music
- Holiday tunes accompany the display
- Multiple shows throughout the evening
- Family-friendly entertainment
- Prime photo opportunities
Holiday Train Ride
A highlight for visitors of all ages:
- Life-sized toy train decked in colorful lights
- 15-20 minute magical ride through the village
- Stop for photo opportunities along the route
- Perfect for families with children
- Additional cost may apply
The Toy Factory
New for the 25th anniversary:
- Interactive space inside redesigned Family Activity Centre
- Victorian Saint Nick welcomes visitors
- Photo opportunities with Santa
- Engaging activities for children
- Festive atmosphere
Planning Your Visit
Dates and Hours
Festival Schedule:
- Through December 14: Thursday - Sunday
- December 18 - January 15: Open nightly
- Closed: December 24 and 25
- Hours: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM nightly
Accessibility Nights
Special drive-through nights for guests with mobility or sensory needs:
- December 3, 9, 10, and 17, 2025
- January 12, 2026
- Experience the lights from your vehicle
- Contact venue for details
Ticket Information
Pricing (Plus HST):
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult (25-64) | $18 |
| Senior (65+) | $17 |
| Young Adult (18-24) | $9 |
| Youth (17 and under) | FREE |
Canada Strong Pass: Free admission for ages 17 and under, half-price for ages 18-24.
Important: Tickets are online only, with limited entries per evening and time slot. Most nights sell out—purchase early!
Illustrative image only.
Food and Refreshments
Dining Options
Warm up with festive food throughout the village:
- Willard’s Hotel - Sit-down dining
- Harvest Barn - Comfort food favourites
- BeaverTails - Canadian classic treats
- Village Café - Quick bites and beverages
- Cook’s Tavern - Tavern fare
- Toy Factory Cafe - New this year
Warming Up
Beat the cold with hot options:
- Hot chocolate and warm beverages
- Hearty soups and meals
- Indoor seating areas
- Multiple warm-up locations throughout
Getting There
Location
Upper Canada Village 13740 County Road 2, Morrisburg, Ontario
From Ottawa:
- Approximately 80 km southeast
- About 1 hour drive via Highway 417 and Highway 31
- Well-signed from major routes
Parking
- Free parking available on site
- Large lots accommodate busy evenings
- Arrive early on popular nights
- Accessible parking available
Tips for Your Visit
Best Practices
Maximize your Alight at Night experience:
- Book tickets early - Popular nights sell out
- Dress warmly - You’ll be walking outdoors
- Wear comfortable boots - Some paths may be snowy/icy
- Bring cameras - Photo opportunities abound
- Allow 2-3 hours - Time to see everything
- Arrive at your booked time - Entry is timed
With Children
Family-friendly tips:
- Visit the Toy Factory for Santa photos
- Train ride is a must-do
- Bring hot chocolate money
- Pack extra mittens
- Consider wagons for small children
- Evening hours work well for most ages
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance? A: Yes, tickets are online only with timed entry. Most nights sell out, so advance purchase is strongly recommended.
Q: Is Upper Canada Village accessible? A: The village has some accessibility features, and special drive-through nights are offered for guests with mobility or sensory needs on specific dates.
Q: How long should I plan to spend? A: Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the lights, enjoying activities, and having food. Allow extra time if you want to do everything.
Q: Is the event weather-dependent? A: Alight at Night operates in most weather conditions. Dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear for potentially snowy or icy paths.
Q: Can I get a refund if I can’t attend? A: Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Be sure to select a date you can definitely attend.
Final Thoughts
Alight at Night’s 25th anniversary marks a quarter-century of holiday magic at Upper Canada Village. With over one million lights, new attractions like the Toy Factory, and free admission for youth, this season offers the most spectacular display yet.
The combination of historic village charm, festive lights, entertainment, and dining creates an experience unlike any other in the region. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or visiting for the first time, Alight at Night delivers the holiday magic that has made it an Eastern Ontario institution.
Book your tickets early at uppercanadavillage.com and prepare for an unforgettable evening of holiday enchantment.
Source: Upper Canada Village, St. Lawrence Parks Commission - Compiled for Via Ottawa readers.
For more holiday events near Ottawa, visit Ottawa Events or explore Things to Do!
