If you’re looking for some twinkling holiday magic, we know of a few places in and around Ottawa that will have everyone’s eyes lit up with wonder at the glimmering light shows and displays. We are also noticing even more elaborate light displays in neighbourhoods all over the City, so driving around to see the lights might find you some hidden Griswold style gems!
Here are some of the best places to see Christmas lights in Ottawa with the kids.
Taffy Lane (Orleans)
Located in Ottawa’s East end in Orleans, Taffy Lane has long established a name for itself as one of the go-to streets to see Christmas lights in Ottawa. Families from across the city can enjoy a leisurely drive along the street featuring light displays, inflatable Christmas décor and there’s often a collection for the Ottawa Food Bank. We love the efforts these local families put into making Taffy Lane a special experience for Ottawa families, and we also love how our kids can’t help but smile and squeal in delight at seeing the brightly coloured displays. You can find Taffy Lane in Orleans, off of Jeanne D’Arc Boulevard.
Magic of Lights at Wesley Clover Park (Nepean)
Until January 9th, drive through one of the most unique places to see the lights in Ottawa. Stay in the comfort of your own car and drive along the 2 km of festive lights at Wesley Clover Park West of Ottawa (Nepean). Lights and animations are ready to create special memories for your family. Tip: Buy your tickets in advance to save some money. Tickets are charged on a per-vehicle basis. Magic of Lights is open every day (weather permitting) from dusk until 10 pm. There are some bubble and social distancing restrictions listed.
Cumberland Heritage Village Museum Vintage Village of Lights (Cumberland)
If you’re already planning a visit to Ottawa’s East end, continue to Cumberland where the special Vintage Village of Lights is once again available every weekend leading into Christmas. This year, the event has become a drive-thru experience. Tickets are required to be booked in advance (per vehicle). Your family will enjoy the lights and take home cookie decorating package so you can continue the merriment at home!
Lansdowne
Right in front of the Aberdeen Pavilion is a stunningly lit Christmas tree set in front the pavillion and take a stroll to see other lights in the area.
Saunders Farm
New this year is the Saunders Farm evening lights and sound drive thru magical experience. Families will enjoy a festive drive through 2 km of trails and lights. Then, stop at the Night Patio for a hot beverage, treat or Beavertail by the bonfire. Tickets are available every night of the week and you’ll save if you purchase in advance online.
Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village (Morrisburg)
South of the city (about an hour or more away) is Upper Canada Village and their seasonal special event Alight at Night. Thousands of coloured lights will adorn the village as it comes alive with Christmas spirit. Visit with Santa for a special photo, and step back into history as you enjoy Christmas activities like years gone by. Alight at Night is shining their lights until the first week of January and happens nightly between Thursdays and Sundays at 5 pm. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.
Christmas Lights Across Canada
If you haven’t seen the lights on Parliament Hill, we encourage you to walk around and explore the lights in the area on the Pathway of Lights until January 7th. There’s also a virtual light show to enjoy as well. IllumiNATION — A celebration of lights across Canada begins December 18th!
Tagged under: Christmas activities,holidays,ottawa
Category: events
