Discover the Magic of Niagara-on-the-Lake

Nestled in the heart of Ontario’s wine country, Niagara-on-the-Lake transforms into a winter wonderland as the festive season approaches. With its charming streets adorned with twinkling lights and the crisp winter air filled with the scent of pine, this picturesque town offers a perfect escape for families looking to embrace the holiday spirit. As you stroll through the historic Old Town, you’ll find an array of boutique shops and cozy cafes, each offering a warm respite from the chilly weather. Be sure to visit the local Christmas market, where you can sip on hot cocoa while browsing handcrafted gifts and festive decorations.

For those seeking a bit of adventure, the Winter Festival of Lights Tour is a must-do. Available from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, this tour takes you on a magical journey through the illuminated landscapes of Niagara Falls. As you embark on this evening tour, you’ll be captivated by the dazzling light displays that transform the falls into a shimmering spectacle. The tour includes a visit to the Journey Behind the Falls, where you can experience the raw power of the cascading water from a unique perspective. One recent review from May 2024 captures the essence of this experience:

Best tour! Must do! - The tour was AWESOME and perfect! Dwayne was the perfect combo of enough information without being an overbearing tour guide. Taking the tour really saved on the hassle of parking and just maximized time at all the locations. It was easy to get picked up from the hotel in the mini bus. It was super comfortable even though it was a full bus. We loved seeing Niagara during the day. Have a great buffet dinner at the 13th floor of Sheraton overlooking the falls and get back out there for touring the parkway. And it was a treat to see it at night with the falls being illuminated. Of course, we had to do the hornblower cruise and get right into the falls and that was SUPER fun. Recommend waterproof shoes LOL. But eventually we dried up! 10 out of 10 and would do it again! (Reviewed at: 2024-05-05)

Savor the Flavors of Niagara

No visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake is complete without indulging in its renowned wine offerings. The Luxury Wine Tasting experience is available on both days, with sessions starting at 11:00 AM and running until 4:45 PM. This luxurious tasting session features the region’s top-class Icewine and Sparkling Wine, paired with delectable treats like matured cheddar cheese and butter toffee white chocolate. As you sip on a glass of Eric Brut Sparkling Wine, you’ll be transported to a world of elegance and sophistication.

The tasting takes place at the Between the Lines Winery, a family estate known for producing premium VQA wines and Icewines. While the experience doesn’t include a tour of the estate, the knowledgeable hosts ensure that you leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking. A review from September 2024 highlights the memorable nature of this experience:

Delicious and Informative - This was a wonderful experience. We were not very familiar with the different wines - so they were explained to us. Our hostess was lovely and very knowledgeable. The wine, cheese, and desserts were all delicious. When we left we picked up a bottle of the ice wine to take home with us. (Reviewed at: 2024-09-09)

Embrace the Festive Spirit

As the sun sets and the town is bathed in the glow of holiday lights, Niagara-on-the-Lake comes alive with festive cheer. The town’s annual Christmas parade is a highlight of the season, featuring floats, marching bands, and a special appearance by Santa Claus himself. Bundle up in your coziest winter attire and join the locals as they line the streets to watch this beloved tradition.

For a more intimate holiday experience, consider booking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-dusted vineyards. As you snuggle under a warm blanket, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, with the twinkling lights of the town in the distance. This enchanting ride is the perfect way to end a day of exploration and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Whether you’re sipping on a glass of Icewine or marveling at the illuminated falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a magical escape that captures the essence of the holiday season. So pack your bags, gather your family, and get ready to embrace the festive spirit in this charming winter wonderland.