Get ready, because the most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner! It's time to gather your friends and family and dive into a world of festive fun happening in London, Ontario this holiday season.Let There Be Lights!
If you're eager to bask in the beauty of holiday lights without braving the winter chill, prepare for a mesmerizing experience at Magic of Lights! Starting on November 17th and running until January 6th, this dazzling drive-through lights display at Longwoods Road Conservation Area covers a spectacular 1.8 kilometers. From the comfort of your car, you'll navigate through your favorite holiday scenes and characters. Tickets start at just $20 per car, and the event runs nightly from 5:30 - 9:00 p.m. (Sunday - Thursday) and 5:30 - 10:00 p.m. (Friday and Saturday).
For those who don't mind bundling up and heading outdoors, the Downtown for the Holidays campaign kicks off with the annual Lighting of the Lights at Victoria Park on November 24th from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Witness live entertainment and a proper countdown to the dazzling display of over 75,000 lights illuminating the park nightly from 5:00 - 11:00 p.m. You can enjoy this spectacle until the end of February.
Christmas Markets and Craft Shows
'Tis the season for London's renowned Merry Market at 100 Kellogg Lane! Running from November 30th to December 17th (every Thursday to Sunday), the 4th Annual Merry Market promises a memorable experience. Explore the offerings of local vendors in Twinkle Town (indoors) and Winter Village (outdoors). Capture magical moments with the family by the towering Christmas tree, incredible ice sculptures, or the popular big red phone booth! Admission is entirely free, and parking is complimentary on site. Don't miss the lighting of the 35-foot Christmas tree on November 30th at 6:00 p.m., complete with a live performance from a very special guest in the main atrium!
Celebrate the spirit of the season by supporting local businesses at Fanshawe Pioneer Village's Holiday Market on November 25th. Immerse yourself in the ambiance and magic of winter while shopping from 30 local artisan vendors.
The 42nd London Christmas Craft Festival, a local tradition for many years, returns to the Western Fair District from November 30th to December 3rd. With over 200 local artisan and craft vendors, it's the perfect place to check off your holiday shopping list.
Join the Hyde Park BIA for their Christmas Market on December 2nd and 3rd! Enjoy the festivities with vendors, food trucks, live music, and marshmallow roasting by the fire. Plus, don't miss the chance to have a pancake breakfast with Santa on December 2nd!
Live Entertainment and More
The CPKC Holiday Train is making its return, ready to "Wish you a Merry Christmas" with your favorite holiday songs! Bundle up and immerse yourself in the holiday magic while enjoying performances by Seaforth and Kiesza. The train will stop at the Richmond Street railway crossing between Oxford Street and Central Ave on November 23rd at 8:15 p.m., with the show starting at 8:30 p.m.
Step back in time and experience a Victorian Christmas at Eldon House, London's oldest family residence, from December 1st to January 1st (Wednesday - Sunday). While you're there, be sure to snap a photo with the Father Christmas Standee!
For a fun day out with the kids, head to Wortley Village for their annual Christmas in the Village on December 2nd from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Spend quality time with Santa, enjoy live music, play games, take a horse-drawn wagon ride, create crafts, and more!
Close the holiday season on a high note with "rocking around" Victoria Park during New Year's Eve in the Park on December 31st. The park will come alive with fireworks, free outdoor skating, live music, and entertainment. There will even be two countdowns, so young ones can partake in the festivities! Sip on hot chocolate and savor the holiday lights as you ring in the New Year.
London, Ontario is bursting with exciting events and experiences this holiday season. So, bundle up, grab your friends and family, and embark on an adventure to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year!