Here’s our list of the top five best things to do in Niagara Falls during the winter.

NIAGARA FALLS WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Dates: November 18th, 2023, to January 7th, 2024

There’s no better way to get into the spirit of the season than by exploring Niagara Falls’ tourist districts during the Winter Festival of Lights.

This free event has millions of lights, interesting displays, and hands-on activities. Thousands of people come every year to drive or walk through all the larger-than-life displays, trees wrapped in lights, and themed illuminations that include animals and holiday classics like the Gingerbread House.

WINTER FIREWORKS OVER THE FALLS

Dates: November 18th, 2023, to January 7th, 2024

The Winter Fireworks over the Falls is a tradition that has been taking place for many years. The falls come alive with a dazzling fireworks display at 8 p.m. Every year on New Year’s Eve, thousands of people gather near the edge of the falls to watch spectacular fireworks at the stroke of midnight.

• November: 18, 24-25 at 8:00 pm
• December: 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-31 at 8:00 pm
• December 31 * NYE at 12:00am
• January: 1–7, at 8:00 pm

THE ANNUAL POINSETTIA SHOW

Dates: November 18th, to January 7th, 2024

The Floral Showhouse Christmas Annual Poinsettia Winter Display runs from November through January 8. This year’s Poinsettia Show features more than 1,400 poinsettias and 1,000 display plants. These beautiful, festive plants are complemented by cyclamens, caladiums, and orchids.

Visit the Niagara Parks website for more information.

SANTA MEET & GREET (With Free Photo)

Dates: December 8, 9, 15, 16, and 22nd

In December, Santa returns to the festival on select nights for photos at Queen Victoria Place in Niagara Parks.

You are invited to head on down to the Gingerbread House at Queen Victoria Place to meet with Santa Claus himself! Get a complimentary digital photo to capture this holiday tradition.

Time: 6 pm-8 pm

NIAGARA FALLS ILLUMINATIONS

Dates: Every evening from 4:30 pm to 2:00 am

Niagara Falls is a world-renowned symbol of nature’s power and beauty. Every winter, millions of visitors from around the globe make their way to Niagara, Ontario, to witness the annual illumination of the falls by lights.