Christmas Lights Across Canada

Ottawa sparkles and shines during the holiday season with Christmas Lights Across Canada. From early December to early January each year, thousands of colourful lights illuminate Canada’s capital. The radiant event, which began more than three decades ago, became such a hit that cities across Canada now participate in what’s become a national tradition. The 34th edition of Christmas Lights Across Canada takes place from December 4, 2019 to January 7, 2020.

Illumination ceremony

The official illumination ceremony is taking place in a new location near Parliament Hill: Confederation Park! On December 4, 2019 starting at 5:30 p.m., the park will be transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland with thousands of lights, live music and interactive pianos. Free BeaverTail pastries will be served (while supplies last)!

Magical winter lightscapes show

From December 4, 2019 to January 7, 2020, a winter lightscapes multimedia show is projected onto Parliament Hill’s Centre Block. Inspired by Canada’s nature, climate and culture, this 13-minute fairy tale runs nightly in a loop, from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Official lighting route

From 4:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. each day during the Christmas Lights Across Canada event, hundreds of thousands of dazzling holiday lights glow throughout downtown Ottawa. The lit areas include Confederation Boulevard, Canada’s ceremonial route, which encompasses Wellington Street, Mackenzie Street, Elgin Street and Sussex Drive in downtown Ottawa, as well as Laurier Street in Gatineau and the Alexandra Bridge. Historic sites and parks along the way are lit up as well.

Some of the best places to experience the lights include the National War Memorial, the Garden of Provinces and the view from Alexandra Bridge.

For more frugal winter fun, see our suggestions for Free or Nearly Free Ottawa in Winter.