Tag Archives: winter festival of lights

Attractions, Entertainment, Events, Family, Food, News, Things To Do, Travel

Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls

3 Comments
Reading Time:  10 minutes -

Enjoy Canada’s foremost illumination festival in Niagara Falls as we capture the magic of the holiday season!

Welcome to the grandeur of the Winter Festival of Lights, Canada’s most extensive FREE outdoor light extravaganza. This awe-inspiring spectacle reigns supreme among Niagara Falls’ attractions. It unfolds with dazzling displays boasting millions of radiant lights and larger-than-life creations across the tourism districts. This annual celebration, the Winter Festival of Lights, is a testament to the enchanting beauty that emerges when art, nature, and the magic of the season unite. In this article, we’ll delve into this popular festival, where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary beneath the radiant Canadian skies.

Celebrating Over 40 Years! November 18, 2023 to January 7, 2024

The Niagara Winter Festival of Lights returns this year with animated light installations and amazing projections – all of which will leave you spellbound! The festival literally shines up the entire Niagara Falls destination with its brilliance and dazzles people with its luminous joy.

Prepare to be entranced by the “Sparkling Winter Lights” Falls Illumination, an enchanting celebration of the season’s splendor and the renowned Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights. Crafted by the Niagara Falls Illumination Board for Niagara Falls Tourism, this mesmerizing light show showcases the graceful yet at times rugged dance of northern winter. Witness everything from delicate snowfalls to the ethereal aurora borealis gracing the snow-covered tundra, as well as the drama of blizzards and the frost-kissed falls themselves. It’s a breathtaking testament to the exhilarating and mystical allure of winter’s spectacle in this remarkable region.

The Niagara Winter Festival of Lights is FREE and open to everyone! It takes place November 18th 2023 to January 7th, 2024 along 8 km of the Niagara Parkway and within Queen Victoria Park, Dufferin Islands, and various tourist areas throughout Niagara Falls including: Clifton Hill, the Victoria Centre, Fallsview Boulevard, and Lundy’s Lane. Visitors should come out early and often to catch all the lighting arrangements throughout the festival.

The Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights has evolved in recent years with new lights, displays, entertainment, and signature events. Feel comfortable visiting the 41st annual event with wide-open outdoor spaces ideal for physical distancing measures. Take a walk through the parks, drive along the festival routes, and view the spectacular lights from the local restaurants and hotels.

FIREWORKS SCHEDULE

The WFOL Fireworks series kicks off on November 18th, with shows every Friday and Saturday evening at 8:00 pm. During the holiday season, you can catch nightly displays from December 22 to the grand finale on January 7, 2024. There are numerous chances to witness the breathtaking fireworks and the magnificent Falls this winter.

November: 18, 24-25 at 8:00 pm
December: 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-31 at 8:00 pm
December 31 * NYE at 12:00 am
January: 1-7 at 8:00 pm

“SPARKLING WINTER LIGHTS” FALLS ILLUMINATION

To embrace the enchanting winter season and celebrate the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, a stunning illumination display named “Sparkling Winter Lights” has been created by the Niagara Falls Illumination Board for Niagara Falls Tourism. This exhibit artfully captures the subtle yet dramatic aspects of the northern winter. It showcases the delicate beauty of snowfall, the ethereal dance of the aurora borealis over snowy landscapes, the fierce intensity of blizzards, and the frosty charm of the falls, culminating in an exhilarating and magical winter spectacle.

Every evening, the powerful American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls awaken in a stunning homage to the boundless natural beauty that envelops them. As a part of the nightly illumination ritual, this five-minute spectacle graces the Falls on the hour, lighting up the night at 6:00 pm, 7:00 pm, and 8:00 pm from November 18, 2023, through January 7, 2024. It’s a captivating display that enhances the already awe-inspiring experience of these iconic cascades.

2023 DISPLAY ROUTE

Watch this page for more info, coming soon!

ROYAL PROMENADE
ENCHANTED FOREST
DUFFERIN ISLANDS
FALLSVIEW BOULEVARD
FROSTED FALLS
THE GREAT CANADIAN NORTH
NIAGARA PARKWAY
LUNDY’S LANE

FESTIVAL MAP

The 2023-2024 Winter Festival of Lights is illuminating Niagara Falls for 51 nights from November 18, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

CLIFTON HILL

Clifton Hill is generally lit up year round, but will be boosted by additional light displays during the festival. Warm white lighting with strands hanging down will adorn many trees in this area, making it look like Spanish Moss. Located at the bottom of Clifton Hill in Oakes Garden Theatre will be a grouping of beautifully lit spiral trees and bright accent lighting. Best of all, Clifton Hill is also home to numerous year-round attractions such as the Niagara SkyWheel and the Wizards Golf.

At the corner of Victoria Ave. and Clifton Hill, travelers will discover many light displays! Additionally there are a pair of arches above the Clifton Hill district entrance at both Ferry St. and Victoria Ave.

Clifton Hill Favorites

Catch other “must see” Festival favourites including displays like the: The Passage, Zimmerman Fountain, Oakes Garden Theatre, SkyWheel Post Mounted Displays, Noah’s Ark, the 2 storey tall Canada/US flag, the Royal Canadian Mounties, 3-D wildlife presentations, the Skylon Tower illumination, Parks Floral Showhouse and Queen Victoria Park’s  Path of Trees.

EVENTS

Family-friendly entertainment events

Since it began 41 years ago, the Winter Festival of Lights at Niagara Falls has become a beloved winter vacation destination for friends and family. The Festival has grown throughout the years by adding additional light shows and programs. With so much to see and do, there’s always a good incentive to visit again and take in the Festival throughout the course of the 51 nights!

The 41st year promises even more fun for guests! Keep checking for all the information

  • Throughout the month of December, multiple nights of FREE indoor family entertainment will be offered at a variety of host sites on weekends and at night.
  • Every evening, the Falls are specially illuminated.
  • Free photographs with Santa at the Niagara Falls Hot Chocolate Trail in December, sponsored by Ontario Power Generation
  • Misty Kids Coloring Contest

HOT CHOCOLATE TRAIL

Embark on the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights Hot Chocolate Trail and warm up your winter. This self-guided journey will take you to delectable stops with delightful chocolatey creations crafted by talented chocolatiers, chefs, and mixologists at various local restaurants and bakeries. With 17 stops and 23 unique flavors, the trail offers classic favorites like mint, orange, and s’mores, as well as inventive concoctions including Dulce De Leche and Naughty But Nice Hot Chocolate with homemade elements like flavored marshmallows and even eyeball gummies. Choose from non-alcoholic and alcoholic options to sip and savor the season’s sweetness.

Hot Chocolate Trail Map

SANTA MEET & GREET WITH A FREE PHOTO

In December, Santa Claus makes a special appearance at the Festival on select nights for photos at Queen Victoria Place in Niagara Parks.

You’re cordially invited to pay a visit and meet Santa Claus, where you’ll receive a complimentary digital photo to capture this cherished holiday tradition.

Location: TBD

Dates: December 8, 9, 15, 16, 22

Time: 6pm-8pm

WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS RADIO

In December, Santa Claus makes a special appearance at the Festival on select nights for photos at Queen Victoria Place in Niagara Parks.

You’re cordially invited to pay a visit and meet Santa Claus, where you’ll receive a complimentary digital photo to capture this cherished holiday tradition.

WFOL RADIO ON SPOTIFY

FESTIVAL PARKING

There is plenty of parking just off of Clifton Hill that extends to the Skylon Tower. Easily accessible to all attractions and viewing the incredible light displays.

For directions to this parking lot, click the image below:

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL

Enjoy the most popular Illumination Festival in Canada in Niagara Falls as we capture the winter’s magic.

In 1982, the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights was established. With over 1 million annual visitors, we are today delighted to be the largest lighting festival in Canada and the most prestigious in all of North America.

RECOGNTION

The Winter Festival of Lights has grown into one of North America’s largest and most recognized holiday light shows, attracting millions of visitors annually and  hundreds of motor coach tours each year.

Numerous honours from the event and tourist industries have been given to the Festival, including the prestigious Events of Distinction Award from Festivals and Events Ontario, Best Volunteer Program, Top Festival/Event in Ontario, and Most Innovative Partnership (FEO). Additionally, the Winter Festival of Lights has long been acknowledged by the American Bus Association (ABA) as one of its Top 100 Internationally Recognized Events.

Each year the festival is committed to keeping the Niagara Winter Festival of Lights: family friendly, free to attend and open to everyone. So bundle up and celebrate the power of light and community!

HISTORY

The Niagara Falls Canada Visitor and Convention Bureau, now known as Niagara Falls Tourism, the City of Niagara Falls, the Niagara Parks Commission, and a number of private businesses in the Niagara Falls tourism industry joined forces to create the Winter Festival of Lights in 1982.

The Festival was started as an effort to lengthen Niagara Falls’ summer-only tourist season, which had existed for more than a century. The Festival’s initial season featured a modest assortment of lights displays close to the Falls that attracted a respectable 250,000 visitors. A trip to Niagara Falls became rapidly a yearly winter tradition for family and friends as the Festival displays evolved and audience sizes increased each year.

For the “Enchantment of Disney” event, which featured over 20 animated displays of Disney Classics across Queen Victoria Park and an opening ceremony featuring Disney characters, the Winter Festival of Lights teamed up with Disney in 1992. Sadly, the Disney exhibits were taken down in 2013 since Disney chose to restrict character appearances to their theme parks.

The Festival started a nightly parade of lights with illuminated floats from 1998 to 2006.

The Festival adopted new themes following the Disney era, such as a Korean Lantern display, art installations, and interactive light shows. The Winter Festival of Lights nearly increased in size in 2021 from an average of 54 nights to 101 nights, more than doubling its collection of lights in 2020.

CURRENT

From mid-November through Family Day in February, Niagara Falls is transformed into a kaleidoscope of dazzling colour by the Winter Festival of Lights. Along the Niagara Parkway’s journey through the Dufferin Islands and into the tourist areas of Fallsview Boulevard, Lundy’s Lane, and other areas, millions of glittering lights, captivating displays, and interactive experiences continue to enhance the yearly winter tradition.

The Festival continues to develop its themed display sections such the Royal Promenade, Frosted Falls, Enchanted Forest, and Great Canadian North with a focus on offering fun for all ages with family-friendly exhibits and entertainment. More than 50 larger-than-life illuminations, including Canadian wildlife displays, the two-story Zimmerman Fountain, a gingerbread home, a 60-foot light tunnel, a castle, and more, may be seen along the Niagara Parkway.

Niagara Falls Tourism, together with the Tourism Partnership of Niagara, the Niagara Parks Commission, and the local Business Improvement Areas, presents the Winter Festival of Lights.

*For more information on the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights please visit www.wfol.com*

Entertainment, Events, Facts, History, News

History of the Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls, Canada

Leave a comment
Reading Time:  3 minutes -


There is no denying the huge growth over the years at the Winter Festival of Lights, but how much do you know about the history of the Winter Festival of Lights?

The festival originally began on the US side in Niagara Falls, New York back in 1980. It only lasted 44 days and was simply titled “Festival of Lights.” The event received funding by sponsorship from the area tourist industry, and with volunteer help from the community. 

This included a nine-story “OxyLights,” which was a light show synchronized to Christmas music. The vacated Nabisco 180 foot tall silos were illuminated and called the “Nabisco Fantasy of Lights” on the south end of the downtown area. The trees along Old Falls Street and Lackey Plaza were decorated with thousands of strings of lights creating a path from the Falls Convention Center to the Winter Garden. Inside, there was more than 15,000 square feet of indoor animation in the Carborundum Center and inside the Niagara Falls Convention Center. The seven-story Wintergarden also had strings of lights and a huge star hanging over the entrance.

This “Festival of Lights” ran until 2004 when the City of Niagara Falls eventually didn’t receive enough sponsorship dollars.

Some photos from the US “Festival of Lights” (photos courtesy of the Niagara Falls Public Library Local History Department).


Niagara Falls, Ontario then decided to take on the “Festival of Lights” in 1983 (changing the name to the “Winter Festival of Lights” in 1985). This was an arrangement made between the Niagara Falls Canada Visitor and Convention Bureau, the City of Niagara Falls Ontario, and the Niagara Parks Commission after seeing the huge tourist draw that it brought the US side. Its budget was modest — only $18,000 when it premiered on November 17, 1983 until February 26, 1984. During this first year of operation, approximately 250,000 people and 35 motor coaches visited the Winter Festival of Lights. Currently in its 39th year, it sees upwards of 1 million annual visitors and 750 motor coaches each year.

In 1992, the Winter Festival of Lights introduced Disney into the mix. The “Enchantment of Disney” displays were immediately a crowd favourite throughout Queen Victoria Park, with over 20 animated displays of Disney classics.

Festival of Lights Disney’s Toy Story in Lights 2004

From 1998-2006, the Festival introduced a weekly Night Parade of Lights in which it featured a dozen or so lit up floats. Despite its success, in 2006, the Winter Festival of Lights cancelled the Night Parade, which in turn poured more money to be put into lights throughout the park and Dufferin Islands.

In 2010, the CAA became a huge sponsor of the Winter Festival of Lights and then became known as the “CAA Winter Festival of Lights” when they signed a contract for a two-year sponsorship.
In 2013 (to current date), the Ontario Power Generation became its new sponsor, now being entitled the “Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights“. Additionally, the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights ended the partnership with Disney for light displays and opening ceremonies after twenty years. Disney had decided to limit the character’s appearances to their theme parks. Organizers decided to replace them with twenty Korean lantern displays, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the end of the Korean War and 50 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and South Korea.

This year in 2021, The Winter Festival of Lights will illuminate Niagara Falls for 101 Nights (November 13th, 2021- February 21st, 2022), almost doubling the amount of time from previous years. Every year, there is always something new and spectacular happening during this ever-growing and one of Canada’s favourite events.

2020 introduced 20 new additional displays, with this year adding a further 8 new exhibits. 3D animals are back, along with a big gingerbread home, fairy tale palace, and light tunnel.

For more information on the Winter Festival Lights

News, Things To Do

Opening Ceremonies of the Winter Festival of Lights

Leave a comment
Reading Time:  2 minutes -

The Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights invites you to join them as they kick-off the 2019-2020 season on Saturday, November 16th, 2019!

The family friendly Opening Ceremonies of the WFOL will take place in  Queen Victoria Park just steps from Niagara Falls’ brink where Murray Street meets the Niagara Parkway just steps from the Falls.

The Opening Ceremonies of the Winter Festival of Lights will officially kick off at 3:00 pm and run until 8:00 pm with fireworks launching at 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm. Come out to enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, interactive displays and special guests over the course of the event. Children’s entertainment will include a performance by magician Greg Frewin, cast members from Oh Canada Eh? and Belle & the Beast by Linus Hand Productions.  The flip-the-switch ceremony is to start at 7:30 pm with greetings from dignitaries and a visit by Santa Claus.

Opening Ceremonies Fireworks:
Saturday, November 16th – WFOL Opening Ceremonies fireworks at approximately 8:00PM & 10:00PM

Full Opening Ceremony Schedule:
3:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Niagara Face Painting, Food Trucks, Tim Horton’s Coffee Truck, Home Depot Kids Workshop, RBC Experience (Photo booth, Kids colouring sheets, Leo the Lion, Plinko game & Canadian Olympians meet & greet), Life-sized games (Chess, X’s & O’s), Impulse illuminated See-Saws, Character Meet & Greets with Peppa the Pig, PJ Masks and appearances by WFOL’s very own Misty Kids!

Opening Ceremonies will feature performances by:

  • Cast members of Oh Canada Eh? at 4:00 PM
  • Niagara Star Singers at 4:45 PM
  • Elsa, Anna & Rapunzel in partnership with Linus Hand Productions at 5:00 PM
  • Spiderman, Captain America, Captain Marvel photos and Meet & Greet 5:00 – 7:00PM
  • International Grand Champion of Magic Greg Frewin at 6:00 PM
  • The Niagara Ballet at 7:00 PM

Flip-the-Switch Ceremony – 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM
8:00 PM – Grand finale firework show synchronized to music

WFOL Opening Ceremony FAQ’s

There is plenty of parking just off of Clifton Hill that extends to the Skylon Tower. Easily accessible to all attractions and events, there is even a jolly-cut available to access Queen Victoria Park easily and efficiently, provided you have no mobility issues. For directions to this parking lot, click here: https://www.cliftonhill.com/maps/niagara-falls-parking
No, the Opening Festivities is a free event! There are certain activities (i.e. lantern making) that DO have a small fee associated with them. The Winter Festival of Lights will also be collecting food donations on behalf of Project Share.
Activities will begin at 3:00pm rain or shine
Bring your family and friends, your camera and warm clothing!! Please do not bring outside food or drinks as they are not allowed on-site.
Yes, there are two options for washroom facilities — those located on-site and those located at Tim Horton’s (located on the south side (across from Murray Street) adjacent to Queen Victoria Park.
Opening Ceremony Grand finale is at 8pm. and later they'll be standard fireworks at 10pm
Attractions, Things To Do

3 Must See Events This Winter in Niagara Falls

Leave a comment

Reading Time:  3 minutes -Here is a list of some events not to be missed this Winter in Niagara Falls.

 1. Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights

The Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s premiere illumination festival, and has received a number of awards including being named one of the Top 100 Festivals on Ontario, Sponsor of the Year, Best Volunteer Program, Most Innovative Partnership, and the prestigious Events of Distinction Award from Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO). The American Bus Association has long recognized the OPG Winter Festival of Lights as one of its Top 100 internationally Known Events from 2005-2015.

There are many new additions this year, including a 3-D woolly mammoth light display. The mammoth display is part of the Canadian wildlife light displays at Dufferin Islands. This year’s festival will feature 400,000 lights in Dufferin Islands alone (an increase of last year’s 340,000).

Also new this year is the Deck the Falls walking tours along Fallsview Blvd., and other selected venues. One of the much-anticipated additions, Deck the Falls is a self-guided walking tour that allows visitors to admire Niagara’s finest hotel lobbies decorated in their holiday best. Attendees can take in the giant Lite Brite, listen to live musical performances and sample some holiday appetizers along the way.

For more information on everything fabulous this year please visit www.wfol.com 

*When: November 19, 2016 to January 31, 2017*

2. Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade

The 2016 Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade is a can’t miss family event that happens this year on Saturday, November 19th.

This year’s Parade will feature 12 marching bands, Superheroes, Stilt Walkers, and so much more!

The Parade Route begins at 11:00 am on Victoria Avenue at Armoury Street, and travels north along Victoria Avenue, turning right onto Valley Way, right onto Queen Street, and then ends just past the Niagara Falls City Hall.

During the Parade:

*The Salvation Army will be giving away free Hot Chocolate at the Roseberg Family Park.

*Free face painting, balloons. and caricatures at City Hall.

*Canada Post will be collecting letter to Santa long the parade route — so have them ready!

*Project SHARE will collect food donations along the route.

After the Parade:

*Meet and Greet with Santa Claus & Mrs. Claus.

*283 Performing Arts Company will provide entertainment.

*Zoosemobile and Kobbler Jay will be there.

For more information please visit www.niagarafalls.ca

*When: Saturday, November 19th, 2016 at 11:00 am*

3. Niagara Icewine Festival 

For three weekends in January, the Niagara Region is transformed into a wintry wonderland, celebrating one of Canada’s most cherished products – Ontario Icewine.

From Gala evening toasts to chestnut roasts, ornate ice bars, ice skating and winery tours, the 22nd Annual Niagara Icewine Festival offers plenty for every taste.

This year, celebrate 2017 at the Xerox Icewine Gala: Sugar and Spice, Everything Ice, an all-inclusive event held inside the Grand Halls at the Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara Falls. This is the official kick-off to the Niagara Icewine Festival which features incredible culinary from the world-class Fallsview Casino Resort Chefs and over 100 VQA Icewines and table wines from over 35 award-winning wineries.

Experience the best of Niagara wineries over three weekends with the Discovery Pass program

The Niagara Icewine Festival Discovery Pass is your key to three weekends of wine and culinary adventures at wineries across Niagara. Discovery Pass holders can enjoy eight experiences per pass.

For more information please visit www.niagarawinefestivals.com 

*When: January 13 to January 29, 2017*

Need accommodations for an overnight stay for any of these exciting events ? Click here for a list of nearby Niagara Falls Hotels to choose from.

Grab ahold of a Clifton Hill Fun Pass for a fun-filled day visiting Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls. Clifton Hill is known around the world as the ‘Street of Fun by the Falls” — and for good reason! It’s impossible to be bored here. See what everyone is talking about for yourself! This discounted pass gives you access to 5 fantastic attractions at one LOW price.
Attractions, Things To Do

List of Upcoming Niagara Festivals and Fairs in the Fall

Leave a comment

Reading Time:  < 1 minute

List of Upcoming Niagara Festivals and Fairs in the Fall

The cooler weather is approaching and it’s time to get out and look for some places and events to go with the family during the crisp, Fall season. Here is a list of some upcoming Niagara Festivals and Fairs from now until the end of the Fall season 2016.
 
October 7th – 10th: Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival, Jordan
October 8th – 9th: Boo at the Zoo, Stevensville
October 22nd: 12th Annual Pumpkinfest, Niagara Falls 
November 19th: Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade, Niagara Falls 
November 19th – January 31st: Winter Festival of Lights: Niagara Falls 
November 20th: St.Catharines Santa Claus Parade, St. Catharines 
November 26th: Fort Erie Santa Claus Parade, Fort Erie 
November 26th: Thorold Santa Claus Parade, Thorold 
December 3rd: Grimsby Santa Claus Parade, Grimsby 
December 3rd: Port Colborne Santa Claus Parade, Port Colborne 
December 10th: Niagara on the Lake Santa Claus Parade, Niagara on the Lake 
December 10th: Pelham Santa Claus Parade, Pelham 
**For a list of Niagara Falls Entertainment facilities and theatres to visit either with the family or without, click here.

 
 

News

Winter Festival of Lights presents the Ninja Turtles Light Displays

Leave a comment

Reading Time:  2 minutes -The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles light displays will officially be unveiled this Friday, December 12th as part of the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights festival.
Head to the top of Clifton Hill and Victoria Avenue to watch as numerous Ninja Turtles light displays get switched on along the Promenade. This is just another new addition to this year’s Festival of Lights displays, which will add a little more dimension to the festival, as well promote the December 16th release of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie on DVD and Blue-Ray.
“We are always looking for something new and exciting for the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fit that bill perfectly,” says Festival co-chair Brian Crow. “The youngsters will certainly enjoy seeing the Ninja Turtles in lights. We know they have a core audience that will enjoy seeing their movie and comic book heroes in a new way, and there is a whole new audience out there for these iconic characters.”
The lighting ceremony will begin at 7:00 pm, and the festival will be handing out Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Holospex glasses in order to add a 3D effect to the Ninja Turtles light displays, PLUS Ninja Turtles rain ponchos.
Following the lighting ceremony, stay for a really special Niagara Falls Fireworks display at 9:00 pm that will feature colours of the Ninja Turtles — blue, orange, red, purple, and green!
To add to the excitement, on Tuesday, December 16th, there will be several special screenings of the movie at the Ripley’s 4D Moving Theatre on Clifton Hill.
These showings will be at the following times: 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm.
The festival has also launched a Ninja Turtles colouring contest, with the winner earning a one-night stay for a family of four at the Great Wolf Lodge in Niagara Falls.
For tickets to the movie showings, or for the colouring contest details, please click here.

Christine Lynn

clynn@cliftonhill.com

www.cliftonhill.com

Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb

Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt

Google+: www.CliftonHill.com/gplus

Pinterest: www.CliftonHill.com/pin

Instagram: @cliftonhillfun

 
 

Things To Do

Niagara Falls Events for the Fall Season

Leave a comment

Reading Time:  4 minutes -It’s the beginning of Fall so it seems only appropriate to list some of the best upcoming Niagara Falls events for the Fall in 2014:
40th Annual Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival (October 10th – 13th, 2014) 

The Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival takes place from Friday, October 10th – Monday, October 13th, 2014 from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm and features over 200 selected artisans displaying and selling their creative arts, crafts, clothing and potteries.
This is one of the most popular Niagara Falls events for the Fall, and has been a Thanksgiving staple in this region, in its 40th year of the show. The Festival has become a long-standing, favourite tradition for both families and visitors who come from far and wide to experience the Ball’s Falls annual festival and its natural setting. You can enjoy the incredible beauty of this 19th Century hamlet, set amid the majestic Niagara Escarpment and the Twenty Valley. The event is a major fundraiser for the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), with revenues from admission directed towards a number of NPCA’s conservation programs, magic shows and numerous heritage displays in order to keep visitors engaged.
From Toronto: Follow QEW Niagara bound to Exit 71 – Christie Street in Grimsby.  Follow Regional Road 12 (Christie Street becomes Mountain Road).  Turn left onto Fly Road; turn right at Victoria Avenue (Reginoal Road 24) – Follow Directional signs to Ball’s Falls.
From Niagara Falls/Buffalo: Follow QEW Toronto bound to Exit 55 – Jordan Road.  Follow Directional signs to Ball’s Falls.
Admission: $6 per person.
Seniors 65+: $4 on Friday only.
Children under 14: Free when accompanied by an adult.
For further information please visit www.ballsfalls.ca
Niagara Falls International Marathon (October 26th, 2014)

The Niagara Falls International Marathon celebrated its inaugural running in 1974. The race was known as the Skylon Marathon. Beginning during the first wave of the North American running boom, it quickly became a favourite as it was, and still is, the only marathon in the world that starts in one country and finishes in another. Today it attracts 6000 runners from over 30 countries from around the world…it’s a destination marathon that crosses an international border, providing the runners with an experience of a lifetime. Niagara Falls International Marathon is also a Boston Qualifier.

Event Information
Race Date and Start Times

Sunday, October 26th, 2014

  • Marathon – 10:00am
  • Half Marathon Run/Walk – 10:00am
  • 10K – 9:00am
  • 5K – 8:30am
  • 2K – 10:30am
  • Schools Marathon Challenge – 8:00am

Online registration is open for 2014.

Click here to register online and visit www.niagarafallsmarathon.com for more information.

Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights (November 15th, 2014 – January 12th, 2015)

Every year, Canada’s foremost illumination festival in the beautiful Niagara Falls captures the magic of the holiday season with the Winter Festival of Lights. It attracts over 1.5 million visitors and hundreds of motor coaches annually.  Recognized as a Festival of Distinction by Festivals & Events Ontario and a Top 100 Internationally Known Event in North America by the American Bus Association for the past several years, and was recently included in the Top 10 Canada’s best winter festivals by canoe.ca. Expect to view an array of over 120 animated displays made up of millions of holiday lights! This majestic display frames the most beautiful attraction of all, the Niagara Falls and all along the Niagara Parks “Winter Wonderland” and the adjoining tourist districts.
There is no admission fee to view the illuminations, but donations are gratefully accepted by Festival Ambassadors at the exit by Dufferin Islands. There is a suggested contribution of $5 – $10 per car and $1 per coach bus passenger. Proceeds are used to enhance the lights and displays for the future event that has becoming a world-wide known tradition.
For more information please visit www.wfol.com
Concerts and Shows at Fallsview Casino Resort

The Fallsview Casino Resort presents a wide array of entertainment over the duration of the Fall. Here’s a sample of upcoming shows and the links to obtain tickets:
Le Grand Cirque – September 18th – October 5th. Tickets start at $20.
Jennifer Hudson –  — Tickets start at $90.
Kool & The Gang – October 16th. Tickets start at $35.
Gipsy Kings – October 17th. Tickets start at $45. 
REO Speedwagon – November 6th. Tickets start at $35.
Kenny Rogers Christmas & Hits – November 12th – 15th. Tickets start at $35.
Fallsview Casino’s Christmas On Ice – November 20th – December 7th. Tickets start at $25.
Seneca Casino

The Seneca Casino also presents a wide array of entertainment up and coming for the Fall season — a little bit of everything into the mix. Here’s a short list of just a few of the shows rolling in and the links to obtain tickets:
Macy Gray – October 3rd. Tickets start at $35.
Alanis Morrisette – October 4th. Tickets start at $35. 
Santana – October 11th. Tickets start at $71. 
Gino Vannelli – October 10th – 12th. Tickets start at $35.
David Spade – October 25th. Tickets start at $25.
Roger Hodgson – November 7th. Tickets start at $35.
Steve Miller Band – November 21st. Tickets start at $40.
Diana Krall – November 29th. Tickets start at $40.
Stay connected to me for further Niagara Falls events!

Christine Lynn

clynn@cliftonhill.com

www.cliftonhill.com

Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb

Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt

Google+: www.CliftonHill.com/gplus

Pinterest: www.CliftonHill.com/pin

Instagram: @cliftonhillfun

 
 

Deals

Niagara Falls Casino Contest!

Leave a comment

Reading Time:  4 minutes -It’s that time of the year when Clifton Hill takes a little bit of a break from the chaos of Summertime. It’s just before Christmas and people begin to really watch their budget. The Comfort Inn Clifton Hill room rates are considerably cheaper in the Fall/Winter months than any other time of the year…and now they added a Niagara Falls Casino contest!
This is one of the best times to travel to Niagara Falls, or to simply get away for a staycation. Fewer people travel in December than the most popular months of June to August. This means less crowds, less lineups at popular Niagara Falls attractions, some great deals and there are still some great Niagara Falls events going on in the region — especially with Christmas on the way. As an added incentive, the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill is taking part in a Niagara Falls casino contest — book a room on either Friday, December 6th, 2013 or Saturday, December 7th, 2013 and you are automatically entered into a draw for $200 worth of casino game tokens to use at either Casino Niagara or Fallsview Casino.

* Click here to book a room! You must book by December 4th, 2013*
 So what is going on during those days?
For starters, the Winter Festival of Lights is in full swing! This famous festival transforms the Niagara Parkway into a Winter Wonderland that attracts up to 1.5 million tourists annually both locally and internationally. This year, festival organizers have set up about 20 Korean lantern displays to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the end of the Korean War and 50 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and South Korea. This year’s festival features 125 displays and three million tree and ground lights. The festival runs from November 4th, 2013 to January 31st, 2014.


Conveniently, the Fallsview Casino is running the Fallsview Casino Christmas on Ice show until the final day being Sunday, December 8, 2013! It’s a thrilling high paced spectacle of world-class ice skating and features national championship ice skaters, dancers and singers that will fill you with the magic of the season. Tickets start at $25 and there are various showings. If you are interested in booking on the two eligible dates for the Niagara Falls casino contest, here are the showings:
Friday, December 6th, 2013: 9:00 pm. Click here for ticket info.
Saturday, December 7th, 2013: 3:00pm & 9:00pm. Click here for ticket info.

Make sure to grab your camera and check out Niagara-on-the-Lake, just a short distance from the Clifton Hill Niagara Falls Hotel . On December 6th and 7th, 2013 from 10:00am – 4:00pm the 15th Annual Rotary Holiday House Tour commences. The most gorgeous historic properties are decked out for the season in holiday decorations by local businesses and volunteers. The tour operates regardless of the weather.
Purchased tickets ($25) can be picked up between 10 AM and 5 PM, 7 days a week, at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce, on the lower level at 26 Queen St., Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Of course the Clifton Hill Niagara Falls Hotel is not only walking distance from both the Casino Niagara, Fallsview Casino and the Winter Festival of Lights, but it’s also located right on Clifton Hill itself where all the attractions are open this time of the year — and Friday and Saturday nights until 12:00-1:00am for most attractions! The Niagara Skywheel has heated gondolas for your comfort, so no matter how much the temperature drops, the ride is open and offers spectacular one-of-a-kind views on the Niagara Falls and the surrounding landscape.
The best value for your buck is the Clifton Hill Fun Pass, where you get 5 Clifton Hill attractions for only $25.95+tax/Adults and $19.95+tax/Children — these include the Niagara Skywheel (TWO admissions if you purchase online), Dinosaur Adventure Golf (dependant on weather) OR Galaxy Golf, Movieland Wax Museum, the XD Ride Theatre and the Ghostblasters Dark Ride — plus a bonus of 5 tokens to use in the Great Canadian Midway!

There is so much to see within Niagara Falls, this is only a short summary of events that fall into the days of December 6th and 7th, 2013 — just a little added incentive to book on one or both of those two dates in order to be automatically entered into the Niagara Falls casino contest! To get started, click here. Good luck and enjoy your visit to Niagara Falls and your stay at the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill.


Christine Lynn
www.cliftonhill.com
Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb
Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt
Google+: www.CliftonHill.com/gplus
News

Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel Renovations Are Now Complete!

Leave a comment

Reading Time:  4 minutes -Walking down the glitz and glamour of everything exciting on Fallsview Boulevard, you would be amiss to not notice one hotel that stands high above the rest. The Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel soars 53 storeys above the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls — and 2013 marks the year of completely renovated top-to-bottom room renovations and an almost unrecognizable lobby. I sat down with Jim Graham, the Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel Director of Marketing, to get the inside scoop on what’s new at the hotel — and was given a first-hand tour of this remarkable hotel.

*Jim Graham and I at the Spyce Lounge*
“The south tower has seen significant renovations, and all 500 guest rooms are completely renovated from top to bottom. We have two new food and beverage outlets and our Watermark Restaurant has been refreshed as well” said Graham.


“It has been 13 years since the Hilton’s south tower has seen significant renovations and its floor to ceiling upgrades match those of the north tower” said Graham.
The north tower was constructed in 2009 and houses 450 rooms. Walking through this hotel, I was immediately struck by the modern and up-to-date facade of the Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel. Everything is neutral tones of dark browns and beige. The whole hotel is fresh and spacious, and gives a spectacular view of the majestic Niagara Falls and surrounding landscape. Just check out this photo I took out of one of the rooms in the south tower!

“The renovations are in the tens of millions of dollars” said Graham, adding that the Watermark Restaurant has been given a sweep over as well. That being said, off to the 33rd floor we went to check out the ambient floor to ceiling design. Once I stepped inside the restaurant, it felt like I walked into a page out of Greek Mythology. An indoor waterfall, sculptures of Sea Gods in the walls, and shades of blue and white met my eye. The view was magnificent! The entire wall was a wide open window giving a one-of-a-kind view of the Falls. The menu has also been revised, adding additional farm-to-table continental cuisine from Executive Chef Tim O’Donnell and his team.

 *The Watermark Restaurant is open daily from 5:00pm – 10:00pm. Please call 905-353-7138 to book reservations.
The Watermark Fallsview Restaurant specializes in group dining programs for local and International clients.  In addition to the sensational, panoramic view from 555 feet above the Niagara River, the restaurant offers:
  • Deluxe Breakfast and Buffet
  • A la Carte Dinner, Early Dinner Specials
  • Fallsview Roof Top Dining on the 33rd & 34th floors
  • Multi-level seating
  • Oversized windows 18 feet in height
For Group Tour and FIT information, please contact:
Jeff Andison, Director of Tour & Travel
1-800-339-5023 or jeff.andison@niagarafallshilton.com
Jim and I conducted our meeting at the all-new Spyce lounge situated in the lobby. “Our lobby has broadened to make way for the Spyce Lounge and the market cafe”. Only open since September 2013, the contemporary street-level lounge features live entertainment nightly, and the cafe, which features a touch of familiarity with Starbucks and a relatively new novelty frozen yogurt self-serve bar, Yogurty’s , adds to the company’s desire to provide a competitive edge in the industry. “Typically, it’s important to renovate our properties to ensure the hotel remains up to date and that the interior reflects the trend of current styles”, said Graham.

“This project has been in development for years and represents the completion of our vision” said Graham.
Looking around, the Niagara Falls Hilton Hotel really is in the center of it all with an indoor glass walkway that leads directly to the Fallsview Casino Resort. You have world-class dining and attractions such as the 175 foot tall Niagara Skywheel, right at your fingertips. The renovations came at the right time with the Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights fully underway until January 31st, 2014. Watch as the Niagara Falls illumination really captures the magic of Christmas with over 125 lighted displays along the Niagara Parkway and spectacular fireworks that light up the sky over the Falls.
The hotel is within close proximity of Clifton Hill, the main tourist promenade within Niagara Falls. The Winter Festival of Lights wouldn’t be complete without a picturesque photo of the entire landscape of displays, and the estimated 3 million Christmas lights captured all from the bird-eye view that the Niagara Skywheel offers its customers. Best of all, the wheel caters to groups and is open day to night to accommodate two different views of the wonder of the Niagara Falls. To inquire about group bookings, rates and hours of operation on the Niagara Skywheel please call 905-358-4793.


After meeting with Jim, I took a look around the hotel and snapped some additional photos. The lobby, Brasa Brazilian Steakhouse , and of course the spacious 50,000 square feet meeting rooms that accommodate small intimate gatherings of 10 people, to large corporate functions and formal banquets of up to 625 people, were on my list to capture on camera.


 
For meeting and conference information, please contact Mary Ann Quait, Director of Corporate Sales at 905-353-7124.

Christine Lynn
www.cliftonhill.com
Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb
Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt
Google+: www.CliftonHill.com/gplus
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
News

FAQ’s Regarding the Opening Festivities of the Winter Festival of Lights

Leave a comment

Reading Time:  3 minutes -The Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights is launching its 31st season tomorrow on November 9th, 2013! The opening ceremonies will get underway at 2:00pm at Queen Victoria Park along the Niagara Parkway.
The Winter Festival of Lights has released some Frequently Asked Questions pertaining to this event in which I will share, but there is also further questions answered on their website by clicking here.
FAQ #1: Where can I park?
There is plenty of parking available, including across from the Table Rock Welcome Centre , the Skylon Tower and adjacent to the Skylon Tower in the large grassy area, right up to the Clifton Hill Niagara Falls Hotel (just do not park in the first row of the hotel parking as that is reserved for hotel guests). Tourists can take advantage of the WEGO bus system which travels to and from various tourist districts into the Niagara Parks. Visit www.wegoniagarafalls.com for details and real-time scheduling.

*Picture dictates Skylon Tower Parking, as well as following the arrow into the lot across from the tower. Parking prices fluctuate.*
FAQ #2: Is there seating available for the show?
There is seating for 1000 people for both the Korean War Veterans Tribute Ceremony and the Flip the Switch Lighting Ceremony. There will also be some seating for the cooking demonstrations and other activities. You may also bring your own lawn chairs.
FAQ #3: Is there a cost to attend?
No, the Opening Festivities is a free event! There are certain activities (i.e. lantern making) that DO have a small fee associated with them. The Winter Festival of Lights will also be collecting food donations on behalf of Project Share.
FAQ #4: What time should I show up at?
The day’s activities will begin at 2:00pm with the Korean War Veterans Tribute Ceremony. Afterwards, there will be an abundance of activities throughout the day to keep the family occupied and entertained! The fireworks extravaganza will take place at 7:45pm, so it is best to arrive in plenty of time to ensure a good spot!
For further information on scheduling throughout the day please visit www.wfol.com or click here for a previous blog post listing this information.
FAQ #5: What should I bring?
Bring your family and friends, your camera and warm clothing!! Please do not bring outside food or drinks as they are not allowed on-site.
FAQ #6: Are there washrooms available?
Yes, there are two options for washroom facilities — those located on-site and those located at Tim Horton’s (located on the south side (across from Murray Street) adjacent to Queen Victoria Park.
*******************************
And as usual, make a day of it and check out the attractions on Clifton Hill! Warm up in the Great Canadian Midway or get a bird’s-eye view of the festivities on the Niagara Skywheel ! Bundle a variety of attractions together for one low, low price with the Clifton Hill Fun Pass!

I hope you have a fantastic weekend and you are able to join us with the opening of one of the most gorgeous festivals around the globe — the Winter Festival of Lights!

Christine Lynn
www.cliftonhill.com
Facebook: www.CliftonHill.com/fb
Twitter: www.CliftonHill.com/twt
Google+: www.CliftonHill.com/gplus