Burlington's Beloved Festival of Lights: 30 Years of Sparkle, Plus a Brand New Twist

Ah, winter in Burlington. There’s a certain magic that descends upon the city as the days shorten, and for three glorious decades now, much of that enchantment has, in truth, come courtesy of the Burlington Festival of Lights. It’s a cherished ritual, you could say, the annual transformation of Spencer Smith Park into a twinkling wonderland that signals the arrival of the holiday season.

But this year, well, this year is different. It's special. Because while we all adore those familiar outdoor displays—the shimmering trees, the playful Santa’s sleigh, perhaps even the whimsical dragon—the festival is marking its big 30th anniversary, and to celebrate, it’s inviting us to step inside for a change. Yes, for the first time, the brilliance extends beyond the lakeside chill, offering a whole new dimension of festive cheer.

Imagine, if you will, the usual spectacle: thousands upon thousands of lights, meticulously arranged by dedicated volunteers, reflecting off the frosty waters of Lake Ontario. It’s a free, open-air gallery of pure joy, attracting families and couples and, honestly, anyone looking for a little light in the darkness. You wander along the pathways, perhaps with a mug of something warm, marveling at the sheer scale of it all. It’s a tradition that truly defines winter in this lovely city, running from the tail end of November right through to early January, perfectly bridging the old year and the new.

This year, though, something truly special is happening, something new. To honor three decades of community spirit and luminous displays, the Festival of Lights committee—a tireless group, believe me—has conjured up a couple of indoor events. Think of them as cozy, festive havens from the elements, designed to enhance the already spectacular outdoor experience.

First up is the delightful "Santa’s Workshop." This isn't just a quick peek at the big guy; it’s an immersive experience for the little ones. Happening at the Spencer Smith Park Rotary Centennial Pond Building on select Saturdays and Sundays in December (specifically, Dec. 2-3, 9-10, and 16-17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), it promises crafts, hot chocolate, and storytelling. It sounds like pure, unadulterated holiday magic, the kind of memory-making afternoon that families will cherish.

And then there are the "Warm-Up Weekends" at the beautiful Art Gallery of Burlington (AGB). Now, this is a brilliant addition, offering a slightly different vibe. For a small admission fee—just $5, mind you—visitors can escape the cold on Dec. 1-3 and 8-10 (Fridays 5-9 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays 12-5 p.m.). What can you expect? Live music, tempting refreshments, interactive displays, and even a silent auction. It's a chance to soak in some culture, listen to some tunes, and maybe even snag a unique holiday gift, all while basking in that wonderful festival glow.

It’s a testament, truly, to the enduring appeal of the Festival of Lights that it can continue to grow and evolve after 30 years. From its humble beginnings, it has blossomed into a regional attraction, drawing visitors not just from Burlington, but from across the GTA and beyond. And it’s all thanks to that dedicated volunteer committee, who work year-round to bring this dazzling vision to life, proving that a little community effort can indeed create a whole lot of light. So, bundle up, and perhaps for once, plan to spend a little extra time—both outside and in—experiencing Burlington’s brightest season.