Barrie 
Events Description
Now in its 25th year, First Light is an award-winning, must-see holiday event with a great lineup of family activities, a huge artisan market, and multiple nightly live musical performances, all amidst the spectacular glow of thousands of candles. This year, guests can explore two attractions for the price of one: Sainte-Marie and Martyrs’ Shrine!
The anniversary edition of First Light will feature all the classic elements of this beloved event… plus a few fun new twists!
- Wander through candlelit paths and historic buildings at Sainte-Marie, and explore the illuminated grounds and church at Martyrs’ Shrine
- Watch live music including celtic harp, hand-drumming, and choral performances
- Start your holiday shopping at artisan markets at both locations, with 50+ local vendors
- Enjoy activities for kids at both attractions, including a visit with Saint Nicholas
- See historical demonstrations including blacksmithing and candlemaking
- Explore a unique activity each night, including fireworks on Thursdays, and the opportunity to join a candlelight choir on Fridays and much more!
First Light Behind the Scenes Experience: Access First Light before doors officially open!
- From 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. help light the lanterns that transform Sainte-Marie into a candlelit winter wonderland, then settle into a cozy longhouse to sip warm spiced apple cider while listening to First Nations stories.
- From 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. enjoy the magic of First Light! Wander through candlelit buildings, explore the artisan market, listen to live music and so much more.
- At 6:15 p.m. elevate your evening with a three-course meal served in your own private snow globe under the stars. After dinner, continue to explore everything First Light has to offer.
HOW MUCH
Tickets :
$15 a person (tax inc.)
No reservation required – walk-ins welcome! People who purchase online tickets, or who are eligible for free admission, can proceed to the express lane upon arrival.
Children 5 & under are free
First Nations, Métis and Inuit people eligible for free entry with valid ID
Season passes are valid for this event
Members of the Canadian Armed forces get free admission with valid ID
A person accompanying a paying guest with a disability is eligible for free admission
First Light Behind the Scenes Experience:: $159.82 & up
First Light Holiday Buffet at Restaurant Sainte-Marie (admission inclusive): $37.00 & up
How to get tickets?
WHEN & WHERE
Date & Time:
Thursdays through Sundays, November 27 to December 14, 2025 | 5:30 to 9 p.m.
- Fireworks (Thursday nights only at 7pm)
- Fridays: Join a candlelit choir and meet birds of prey – From 5 to 6:30 p.m. you’ll learn “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” from Scrooged in our indoor theatre. At 6:45 p.m. you’ll perform on the historic site, with each chorister holding a candle, before you enjoy the rest of the event.
- Saturdays: Listen to live music by Ariko Trio
- Sundays: Attend Mass at Martyrs’ Shrine and listen to Karla Crawford: 7:30 p.m.
Venue:
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, 16164 HWY 12 E, Midland
Martyrs’ Shrine, 16163 Ontario Highway 12, West, Midland
- Parking is available at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and at Martyrs’ Shrine.
- There are wheelchair accessible parking spots at Sainte-Marie, by the main entrance, but please note that they fill up quickly.
- Shuttles will travel between Sainte-Marie and Martyrs’ Shrine each night. Shuttles begin at 5:30 p.m. each night and depart either location every 30 minutes.
- Shuttles from the Midland Walmart (overflow parking) to Sainte-Marie will be available on Fridays and Saturdays (plus the final Sunday). Shuttles begin at 5:30 p.m. and can take up to 30 minutes to complete a loop.
