Peterborough 
Events Description
Now in its 26th 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!
- 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 and choral performances
- Start your holiday shopping at artisan markets, with 50+ local vendors
- Enjoy activities for kids at both attractions
- See historical demonstrations including blacksmithing and candlemaking
- Explore a unique activity each night, including fireworks and the opportunity to join a candlelight choir on Friday nights
First Light: The Story Behind the Tradition: Ever wonder how First Light became one of the region’s most beloved holiday experiences? Join us for a 30-minute, small-group guided journey through the history of the event, exploring its origins, the creativity behind its magical atmosphere, and the community spirit that helped it grow into a cherished seasonal tradition. Light some of the lanterns that illuminate history and conclude your visit with a candle-making demonstration in the historic Boivin Building and take home a commemorative keepsake.
Enjoy a holiday meal inside Restaurant Sainte-Marie’s cozy dining room, get takeout on the patio, or elevate your dining experience by booking your own personal snow globe on the grounds of historic Sainte-Marie.
Plus, get snacks and hot chocolate right on the historic site.
Get started on your holiday shopping! Explore one of the region’s most extensive and impressive holiday artisan markets with more than 50 local vendors selling only handmade goods, from socks to soaps and sweet treats.
Warm up as you explore booths in our indoor museum and Brebeuf Centre.
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 Holiday Buffet at Restaurant Sainte-Marie (admission inclusive): $37.00 & up
First Light: The Story Behind the Tradition: Available as an add-on experience each First Light night at 5 p.m. for $24 per person (with tax)
How to get tickets?
WHEN & WHERE
Date & Time:
Thursdays through Sundays, November 26 to December 13, 2026 from 5:30 to 9 p.m.
- Thursdays: Take in joyful performances by local community and school choirs, and listen to Haudenosaunee water drummer Chris Warner
- Fridays: Join a candlelight chorus, take in fireworks performances, and listen to a women’s Métis drum group – Stunning fireworks at 7:15 p.m
- Saturdays: Listen to local favourites Ariko, traditional-style French-Canadian tunes
- Sundays: Celebrate the Christmas season at advent mass at 6 p.m. at Martyrs’ Shrine
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.
