Hamilton 
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. Have an enchanting evening as twinkling lights glimmer throughout the night.
Photo Credit: Simcoe Christmas Panorama
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 from November 29 to January 1.
Dating back to 1958, the Panorama began after a rainy Santa Claus parade left floats in Wellington Park. This accidental display sparked a tradition that continues to attract thousands of visitors annually. Today, the Panorama remains a community effort, supported by local businesses, service clubs, and volunteers who contribute to its success and maintenance.
The highlight of the opening night, on November 29, is the much-anticipated arrival of Santa on the Bickle firetruck, followed by the official lighting ceremony.
You can support Simcoe Christmas Panorama through online donations.
Here is What to See and Do at 2025 Simcoe Panorama:
- This year’s Simcoe Christmas Panorama impresses with over 60 displays and half a million lights.
- Opening Night: The big moment on opening night, November 29, is Santa’s grand entrance on the Bickle firetruck, a tradition everyone looks forward to. After that, the official lighting ceremony kicks off. Robyn Beazley will host the event, and one lucky local kid will get to stand beside Santa and flip the switch that officially launches the holiday season.
- Horse-Drawn Trolley Rides: On December 12, 13, 19, and 20, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., take a scenic $4 trolley ride through the lights. Babies and toddlers in laps are free. The route goes east along Bonnie Drive, south down Norfolk St, west on Alligator Lane and then north back along Kent Street to Bonnie Drive.
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
Trip Planning – Simoce Panorama 2025
Photo Credit: Simcoe Christmas Panorama
When: November 29, 2025 – January 1, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Lights are on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, etc.
Lightup: Saturday, November 29th at 6:00 PM
Horse Drawn Trolley Rides in the park – December 12 – 13, 19- 20 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where:
Photo Credit: Simcoe Christmas Panorama
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
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