Want to experience a magical Christmas with the family and kids?
Then, plan a trip to Simcoe in Norfolk county and experience the charm of the original light festival in Ontario during the annual Simcoe Christmas Panorama and start your journey in a world of wonder as twinkling lights glimmer throughout the night.
This year’s Simcoe Christmas Panorama, despite fewer lights due to limited fundraising, still impresses with over 60 displays and half a million lights. This free event, one of Ontario’s finest, transforms Wellington Park at 50 Bonnie Drive, into a stunning spectacle of vibrant colours, enchanting visitors of all ages with its magical ambiance.
Starting December 2nd, 2023, the festivities will run until December 31st, with the lights dazzling every evening from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, including all holidays.
The highlight of the opening night, on December 2nd, is the much-anticipated arrival of Santa on the Bickle, followed by the official lighting ceremony. You can support Simcoe Christmas Panorama through online donations.
For a unique experience, visitors can enjoy horse-drawn trolley rides on select dates in December, available at a nominal fee of $3.00 per person, with infants riding free. Adding to the festive atmosphere are vendors, hot beverages, and treats like apple cider donuts and hot chocolate with cookies, ensuring a warm and delightful visit.
A special feature this year includes Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, open on December 8th. Visitors will receive complimentary hot chocolate milk and cookies, sponsored by The Norfolk Dairy Producers.
Adding to the charm, Sonny Llama Farms will bring llamas, alpacas, and a donkey on select evenings.
Additionally, Santa will be greeting guests at the Holiday Gazebo in Wellington Park on selected dates.
Parking is conveniently available on nearby streets, with Bonnie Drive and the parking lot for Wellington Park access closed to vehicles. Amenities like Porta Potties are provided in the park. The event is also dog-friendly, with the requirement that all dogs be leashed.
- Places to see Magical Christmas Lights in Ontario
- Drive Through Christmas Lights in Ontario
- Christmas in Ontario
WHEN
December 2 to 31, 2023. | 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm every day.
Lights are on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, etc.
Lightup: Saturday, December 2 at 6:00 pm
Trolley rides in the park from 6 pm – 9 pm
- Friday, December 8th, 2023
Saturday, December 9th, 2023
Friday, December 15th, 2023
Saturday, December 16th, 2023
Santa in the Park: December 2, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 6 pm to 8 pm
Sonny Llama Farms: December 8, 9, 15, 16, 2023
Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen: December 8, 2023, 6:00 pm – 9:00pm
WHERE
Address: Wellington Park – 50 Bonnie Drive, Simcoe, ON
Bonnie Drive is closed to vehicles, as is the parking lot for Wellington Park access from Bonnie Drive.
Parking is permitted on the streets surrounding the park. This includes Norfolk St N, Colborne St, Windham St., Crescent Blvd, McCall St. and Alligator Lane.
Where to Eat: Here
Phone: 519-426-1022
Toll Free # 1-800-338-0273
Email: lights@simcoepanorama.ca
Distance from various Southern/South-Western Ontario Cities
Toronto – 1 h 40 min ~ 147 km
Vaughan – 1 h 45 min ~ 166 km
Mississauga – 1 h 20 min ~ 127 km
Hamilton – 1 h ~ 84.1 km
Niagara Falls – 1 h 37 min ~ 110 km
St Catharines – 1 h 30 min ~ 110 km
Waterloo – 1 h 15 min ~ 77.0 km
London – 1 h 20 min 100 km
Windsor – 3 hours
Hi May I please know do I have to book a spot for the drive through or no