City transforms into winter wonderland with 4th Annual Let It Glow: A Celebration of Light

Woman holding a child in front of a Let It Glow lighting display of colourful lightbulb lights.

The City is thrilled for the fourth season return of its beloved holiday festival, Let It Glow: A Celebration of Light.

This year’s festival kicks off Saturday, Nov. 29 and runs through Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, and will transform Rennie Park, Port Dalhousie, and downtown St. Catharines into a winter wonderland with sparkling light displays and free, family-friendly activities.

Residents and visitors are invited to attend opening night at both Rennie Park and Lakeside Park on Nov. 29 from 4 to 8 p.m. and join in the holiday spirit with entertainment, and glow-in-the-dark giveaways. Hot chocolate, donated by Tim Hortons, will be at Rennie Park during the Let It Glow opening night while supplies last. Beloved holiday characters will add to the holiday cheer, while historic Lakeside Park Carousel will open one-night only offering nostalgic rides. Carolers will serenade visitors and the evening air with holiday favourites from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lakeside Park. Families can also capture memorable moments at a Santa photo station, with complimentary photos to share and cherish.

“The holiday season is a time for connection, joy, and community spirit ─ and Let It Glow has become one of our city’s most beloved traditions,” said Mayor Mat Siscoe. “Each year, Port Dalhousie and City Hall are transformed into a dazzling display of creativity and warmth, providing opportunities for families to share in the wonder of the season.”

Highlights of Let It Glow 2025

Photo credit: Anne Kalagian Photography

Rennie Park Illumination

Explore more than 50 dazzling light installations at Rennie Park, from glowing tunnels to interactive light sculptures, to create stunning photo opportunities and make an evening walk a magical experience.

Photo credit: Anne Kalagian Photography

Lakeside Park Fun

Opening Night Only (Nov. 29) ─ Wander Lakeside Park from 4 to 8 p.m. to enjoy rides on the classic Lakeside Park Carousel, a Santa photo station, and complimentary hot chocolate. Carollers serenade visitors with holiday favourites from 6 to 8 p.m.

Let It Glow lighting display at City Hall

Downtown St. Catharines Lights Up

City Hall Wonderland: City Hall will be transformed into a beacon of holiday spirit in the heart of downtown as it shines bright with thousands of lights and a three-storey, fully lit Christmas tree. This annual display is a favourite for photos.
St. Paul Street Canopy: Stroll beneath a canopy of glittering lights that stretches the length of St. Paul Street.
A Winter’s Night in James Street Alley: A cascade of glittering lights will hang above the cozy alleyway that connects James Street to Garden Park, perfect for evening walks.

A family sits for their photo with Santa in December 2024 at the St. Catharines Farmers Market

Photo credit: Anne Kalagian Photography

Photos with Santa at Market Square ─ Dec. 13, 9 a.m. to noon

Families are invited to Market Square for a meet-and-greet with Santa. Enjoy complimentary professional photos with Santa, perfect for holiday cards. While you’re there, explore the St. Catharines Farmers Market for fresh, local goods and holiday gifts and support local vendors.

Mitten Tree Campaign ─ Dec. 6 to Jan. 4, 2026

The St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre brings back its annual Mitten Tree Campaign. Residents are encouraged to help local families in need by donating winter clothing at the museum. Donations will be delivered weekly to Community Care of St. Catharines and Thorold and Start Me Up Niagara to support families across the community.

A child in a hockey helmet takes a break from the ice to pose for a photo with Stitch and Moana during the New Year's Eve Public Skate in 2024.

New Year’s Eve Public Skate at Seymour-Hannah

Ring in the New Year on Dec. 31 with a free public skate from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre. Doors open at 9 a.m. With all four pads open, one featuring a glow-in-the-dark experience and glow sticks for skaters, it’s a fun, festive way to welcome 2026. Character visits and a family 2026 photo booth round out the celebration. Pre-registration is required.

The City invites everyone to experience the wonder of Let It Glow: A Celebration of Light. This free, self-guided event offers countless ways to make holiday memories and explore our city’s most-scenic spots, from downtown streets to neighbourhood parks.

For more details on schedules and activities, visit stcatharines.ca/LetItGlow.