Nearly 300,000 lights illuminate Canada’s capital as Winter Lights Across Canada begins! Starting December 8, 2025, Parliament Hill and Confederation Boulevard transform into a spectacular pathway of lights, offering free festive magic through January 9, 2026.
Winter Lights Across Canada, formerly known as Christmas Lights Across Canada, celebrates its 39th edition this year. This beloved federal tradition highlights national landmarks, embassies, and monuments throughout Ottawa and Gatineau, creating one of the country’s most impressive free holiday experiences.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Winter Lights Across Canada runs December 8, 2025 - January 9, 2026. Free admission to see nearly 300,000 lights illuminating Parliament Hill, Confederation Boulevard, museums, and monuments. Includes free multimedia show on Parliament buildings.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Dates | December 8, 2025 - January 9, 2026 |
| 📍 Location | Parliament Hill & Confederation Boulevard |
| 🎟️ Admission | FREE |
| ⏰ Best Viewing | After sunset (4:30 PM+) |
The 39th Edition
A Canadian Tradition
Winter Lights Across Canada has illuminated the capital since 1985:
- 39 years of festive tradition
- Nearly 300,000 lights installed annually
- Free for all to experience
- National celebration extending to provincial capitals
- Beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike
What’s Illuminated
The light display encompasses significant sites:
- Parliament Hill - The iconic centerpiece
- National museums - Highlighted in festive colours
- Embassies - Along the ceremonial route
- Monuments and memorials - Respectfully illuminated
- Government buildings - Throughout the capital
Illustrative image only.
The Pathway of Lights
Confederation Boulevard Route
Follow the illuminated pathway through Ottawa and Gatineau:
Ottawa Highlights:
- Parliament Hill and Centre Block
- Confederation Park
- Peacekeeping Monument
- Garden of Provinces and Territories
- National War Memorial
- Major’s Hill Park
Gatineau Highlights:
- Canadian Museum of History
- Portage Bridge illumination
- Alexandra Bridge lights
- Jacques-Cartier Park area
Self-Guided Experience
Create your own route:
- Walk the entire Confederation Boulevard
- Focus on specific areas of interest
- Combine with skating at the Rink of Dreams
- Visit nearby ByWard Market
- Extend to include Rideau Canal area
Parliament Hill Multimedia Show
Sound and Light Experience
A highlight of Winter Lights is the free multimedia show:
- Projected on Parliament buildings
- Combines light, sound, and imagery
- Tells Canadian stories
- Multiple showings nightly
- Check official site for schedule
Viewing Tips
Best experience the multimedia show:
- Arrive 15 minutes early for good viewing spot
- Dress warmly for outdoor viewing
- Check showtimes on Canada.ca
- Consider combining with dinner downtown
- Weeknight viewings often less crowded
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
Parliament Hill Wellington Street at Metcalfe, Ottawa
Transportation Options:
- O-Train: Parliament Station on Confederation Line
- Bus: Multiple routes to downtown core
- Driving: Parking available at World Exchange Plaza, nearby lots
- Walking: Accessible from ByWard Market, Rideau Centre
Best Times to Visit
Maximize your experience:
Optimal Viewing:
- After sunset (approximately 4:30 PM in December)
- Peak lighting typically 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Weeknights generally less crowded
- Fresh snowfall enhances the magic
Busy Times:
- Weekend evenings
- Holiday week (Dec 26 - Jan 1)
- During special events
Illustrative image only.
Combining Activities
Make an Evening of It
Pair Winter Lights with other downtown attractions:
Before the Lights:
- Dinner in ByWard Market
- Shopping along Sparks Street
- Hot chocolate at a local café
- Early skating at Rink of Dreams
After Viewing:
- Late dinner downtown
- Dessert at a patisserie
- Visit the National Gallery (check hours)
- Browse Rideau Centre (until 9 PM)
Nearby Attractions
Within walking distance:
- Rink of Dreams at City Hall
- ByWard Market holiday atmosphere
- Rideau Centre shopping and dining
- Fairmont Château Laurier lobby and shops
- National Gallery of Canada (check evening hours)
Photography Tips
Capturing the Magic
Winter Lights offers spectacular photo opportunities:
Technical Tips:
- Use a tripod for sharp night shots
- Lower your ISO for cleaner images
- Try long exposures for light trails
- Smartphone night mode works well
- Capture reflections in snow and ice
Best Photo Spots:
- Parliament Hill from across Wellington
- Confederation Park fountain area
- Looking back at Hill from Major’s Hill Park
- Bridge views from Alexandra Bridge
- Museum of History with Parliament backdrop
Accessibility Information
Inclusive Experience
Winter Lights is designed for all visitors:
- Wheelchair accessible pathways on Confederation Boulevard
- Multiple viewing areas with different terrain
- Heated indoor spaces nearby for warming up
- Accessible transit to downtown locations
- Audio descriptions may be available for multimedia show
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Winter Lights Across Canada free? A: Yes! Viewing the light displays along Confederation Boulevard and the multimedia show on Parliament Hill is completely free.
Q: How long does it take to see everything? A: A leisurely walk along the main route takes 1-2 hours. Add time for the multimedia show and any stops along the way.
Q: Can I drive along the route? A: The best experience is on foot. Some portions are viewable from roads, but parking near Parliament Hill requires finding downtown lots.
Q: What if the weather is bad? A: Lights are on rain or shine. Bundle up for cold weather. The experience can be magical in snow.
Q: Are there guided tours? A: While the display is self-guided, some tour companies offer holiday walking tours that include Winter Lights.
Practical Tips
What to Wear
December nights in Ottawa are cold:
- Warm winter coat
- Insulated boots for walking
- Hat, gloves, and scarf essential
- Hand warmers highly recommended
- Dress in layers
What to Bring
Enhance your experience:
- Thermos with hot beverage
- Camera or smartphone
- Small flashlight for dark paths
- Cash for nearby vendors
- Transit fare or parking payment
Final Thoughts
Winter Lights Across Canada represents everything wonderful about Ottawa’s winter season—a free, accessible celebration that transforms the nation’s capital into a glittering wonderland. For 39 years, this tradition has brought joy to millions of visitors, and the 2025-2026 edition continues that legacy.
Whether you’re a longtime Ottawa resident or visiting for the first time, walking the illuminated pathways around Parliament Hill creates a special connection to the holiday season. The combination of historic architecture, nearly 300,000 lights, and free multimedia shows makes this one of Canada’s most impressive winter celebrations.
Bundle up, bring your camera, and experience the magic of Winter Lights Across Canada.
Source: Government of Canada, Canadian Heritage, Ottawa Tourism - Compiled for Via Ottawa readers.
For more Ottawa holiday events, visit Ottawa Events or explore Things to Do!
