City Lights Up the Holidays with the 4th Annual Let it Glow: A Celebration of Light

The City of St. Catharines is delighted to bring back its cherished holiday festival, Let it Glow: A Celebration of Light, for its fourth season.

Kicking off on Saturday, Nov. 23, and running through to Jan. 5, 2025, this year’s festival will illuminate Rennie Park, Port Dalhousie, and downtown St. Catharines with dazzling light displays and free, family-friendly activities.

On opening night, Nov. 23, residents and visitors are invited to join in the holiday spirit with live entertainment, glow-in-the-dark giveaways, and complimentary hot chocolate at both Rennie Park and Lakeside Park. A DJ, beloved characters, and buskers will bring additional holiday cheer, while the historic Lakeside Park Carousel will be open one-night only, offering nostalgic rides. Families can also capture memorable moments at a Santa photo station, with complimentary photos to share and cherish.

“Let it Glow has quickly become a holiday tradition, transforming our city into a glowing wonderland and creating lasting memories for everyone who attends,” said Mayor Mat Siscoe. “This year we’re thrilled to expand the event with even more lights, interactive installations, and opportunities for families to celebrate the season together.”

Highlights of Let it Glow 2024:

Rennie Park Illumination – Over 50 illuminated installations await visitors at Rennie Park, with a variety of interactive light sculptures for all to explore. These vibrant displays make for stunning photo opportunities and a magical evening experience.

Lakeside Park Fun – Opening Night Only (Nov. 23) – Wander Lakeside Park from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. to enjoy rides on the classic Lakeside Park Carousel and a Santa photo station. Complimentary hot chocolate will keep everyone cozy as they enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.

Downtown St. Catharines Lights Up

• City Hall Wonderland: Transformed into a holiday beacon, City Hall will shine bright with thousands of lights and a three-storey, fully lit Christmas tree. This annual display is a favourite for photos and will bring festive energy to the heart of downtown.
• St. Paul Street Canopy: Take a stroll under a sparkling canopy of thousands of twinkling lights that stretches across St. Paul Street, creating a truly enchanting winter scene.
• A Winter’s Night in James Street Alley: This cozy alleyway, connecting James Street to Garden Park, will be adorned with shimmering lights, providing a serene space for evening strolls or quiet moments during the festive season.
• Glowflake at Meridian Centre’s Rankin Bridge: A beautiful, giant snowflake installation awaits visitors at the Meridian Centre. Stop by for a picture with this stunning “Glowflake” for a keepsake to remember.

Photos with Santa at Market Square – Dec. 7 and 14 – On Saturdays in December, families are invited to visit Market Square for a meet-and-greet with Santa. Enjoy complimentary professional photos with Santa, perfect for holiday cards. While you’re here, explore the St. Catharines Farmers’ Market for fresh, local goods and holiday gifts to support local vendors. This family-friendly event is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Mitten Tree Campaign – Starting in December, the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre brings back its annual Mitten Tree Campaign. Residents are encouraged to help local families in need by donating winter clothing at the museum. Donations will be delivered weekly to Community Care of St. Catharines and Thorold and Start Me Up Niagara to support families across the community.

The Watering Can Children’s Workshop – Nov. 29 – Children can channel their holiday spirit at the St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre’s “Grinch Tree” workshop. Inspired by Dr. Seuss’s beloved classic, kids will create their own whimsical holiday tree that’s sure to bring a smile, even to the grinchiest guest.

New Year’s Eve Public Skate at Seymour Hannah – Ring in the New Year on Dec. 31 with a free public skate from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre. With all four pads open, one featuring a glow-in-the-dark experience and glow sticks for skaters, this is a fun, festive way to welcome 2025. Character visits and a family photo booth will add extra fun to this family-friendly New Year’s celebration.

Holiday Public Skating and Family Swim – Residents can take advantage of special holiday public skating and family swims. Find the schedule at stcatharines.ca.ActiveSTC.

The City invites everyone to experience the wonder of Let it Glow: A Celebration of Light. This free, self-guided event offers countless ways to make holiday memories and explore our city’s most scenic spots, from downtown streets to neighbourhood parks.

For more details on schedules and activities, visit stcatharines.ca/LetItGlow