Massive Ontario winter festival returns with new offerings next month

An Ontario town is getting ready to light up the holiday season as Amherstburg's River Lights Winter Festival returns next month with hundreds of illuminated displays and installations, plus a brand-new waterfront location.

The annual festival reimagines downtown Amherstburg's streets and waterfront parks as a glowing holiday destination, and since 2026 marks the festival's 20th year, the town is upping the ante. 

Trust me when I say that this milestone celebration is worth adding to your holiday bucket list.

Visitors can explore hundreds of custom LED displays across three waterfront hotspots, each offering its own collection of seasonal sights.

King's Navy Yard Park lets visitors stroll along the Detroit River and take in traditional holiday scenes featuring roaming carolers, The Nutcracker's soldiers, and other festive characters that make for picture-perfect moments to share on your socials.

Head over to Toddy Jones Park for a change of scenery, and you'll find a more playful collection of illuminated displays you'll love, whether you're out for a festive family night out or simply solo and looking to soak up the holiday spirit.

River Lights Winter Festival is also introducing a new location for 2026, with Amherstburg Waterfront Festival Plaza joining the lineup.

The waterfront space will feature what organizers call "nautical-themed installations" alongside new light displays, giving returning visitors something different to discover this year as part of the attraction's 20th anniversary celebrations.

Beyond the glowing installations, River Lights Winter Festival is bringing back one of its coziest seasonal offerings: the Gingerbread Warming House.

The warming house will host weekend activities, including hot chocolate and crafts, giving guests a chance to warm up between exploring the displays and enjoying a little extra holiday magic. It's the perfect excuse to grab a cup of cocoa and take a breather from the winter chill.

River Lights Winter Festival takes place daily from Nov. 14 to Jan. 3 in Amherstburg, Ontario. Visitors can explore the displays at King's Navy Yard Park (242 Dalhousie St.), Toddy Jones Park (50 North St.), and Amherstburg Waterfront Festival Plaza (306 Dalhousie St.).