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Fireworks set to music, a Christmas tree lighting and an evening of entertainment will bring Pickering’s Esplanade Park to life this weekend.
Credit: City of Pickering
The city’s annual Winter Nights, City Lights celebration takes place November 13 and 14, with three hours of festivities each evening. It’s a chance to enjoy an early taste of the holiday season, browse local vendors and catch performances without committing to an entire day out.
The highlight comes early. At 6 p.m. on both nights, the city will illuminate its Christmas tree and launch a pyro-musical fireworks display.
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What Can You See and Do at Winter Nights, City Lights?
The celebration spreads across Esplanade Park, the City Hall courtyard and Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex, combining outdoor festivities with activities inside the recreation complex.
- Christmas Tree Lighting and Fireworks: The evening’s big moment comes at 6 p.m., when Pickering lights up its Christmas tree and fireworks fill the sky in a display synchronized to music. It’s a lovely way to start the evening, especially if you’re bringing children who enjoy the excitement of fireworks.
- Live Entertainment: There’s plenty happening on stage after the fireworks. Nix Ironstone performs at 6:30 p.m. on both nights, followed by a little magic at 7:15 p.m. WonderPhil Magician takes the stage on Friday, while Coach Steve brings his magic show on Saturday. Northfire Circus wraps up the entertainment at 7:50 p.m., giving you another reason to stay a little longer.
- Holiday Shopping: Take some time to wander through the vendor stalls, where you’ll find businesses such as Aboot Canada Eh!, Birch + Margosa, Curry People Candle Co, La Patisserie Nook and Sue’s Handmade Gnomes. It’s a chance to browse handmade items, discover local makers and perhaps cross a few gifts off your holiday shopping list. The Black Joy Holiday Market at Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex adds another place to explore.
- Festive Lights and Photos: Between performances, stroll around the festival grounds to enjoy the illuminated decorations and holiday displays. There will be spots for festive photos and roaming characters to meet along the way, particularly fun if you’re visiting with younger children.
- Public Art: Beyond the holiday decorations, make time for the artwork around City Hall. In the courtyard, Marissa Magneson’s Nitâniskotâpân draws inspiration from Métis floral beadwork and the connections between generations. You’ll also find window paintings by Ray Vidal at City Hall and Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex, adding a creative touch to your walk through the festivities.
Food vendors will be on-site if you’d like something to eat while exploring.
Is It Worth Visiting With Family or Friends?
With free admission and plenty to see and do, Winter Nights, City Lights is an affordable way to enjoy a little holiday cheer without spending much. Families with children can enjoy the magic shows, meet roaming characters and watch the fireworks light up the evening sky, all without paying for tickets. Couples and groups of friends can wander through the illuminated displays, browse the holiday markets and enjoy live performances together. You can easily spend a couple of hours soaking up the festive atmosphere, with the option to treat yourself to something from the food vendors or pick up a holiday gift along the way.
If you’re coming mainly for the fireworks, arrive before 6 p.m. For the complete experience, allow approximately two to three hours.
Most festivities take place outdoors, so dress warmly and wear comfortable footwear.
You can also bring non-perishable food donations for St. Paul on the Hill, which will be collecting items for local families.
What You Need to Know – Pickering’s Winter Nights, City Lights
Credit: City of Pickering
What: Enjoy festive lights, live music, magic shows, circus performances, holiday markets, food vendors, roaming characters and photo opportunities. Christmas tree lighting and musical fireworks begin at 6 p.m. each night. Explore public art installations and bring non-perishable food donations to support local families in need.
Dates: Friday, November 13 and Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily
Tree Lighting and Fireworks: 6 p.m. nightly
Location: Esplanade Park and Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex, Pickering
Admission: Free. Food and market purchases cost extra.
City of Pickering: Winter Nights, City Lights
Christmas and Holiday Events in Durham Region
