Last night, as twilight faded, Niagara Falls transformed into a mesmerizing spectacle of color, launching a year-long celebration for the Niagara Falls Illumination Board (NFIB). On February 24, 2025, the NFIB officially marked its centennial anniversary—a milestone commemorating 100 years of lighting up the Falls in tribute to global causes, cultural moments, and shared human stories.
A Legacy Born in Light
The tradition of illuminating Niagara Falls dates back to 1860, when 200 Bengal lights lit up the night to honor a visit from the Prince of Wales. These early illuminations were sporadic, reserved for royal visits and special occasions. But in the early 1920s, a group of visionary businessmen from Niagara Falls, New York, known as the “generators,” saw the potential for a lasting nightly display. Their relentless efforts led to government support from both the United States and Canada, securing the future of the Falls’ illumination.
On February 24, 1925, the Niagara Falls Illumination Board was formally established with ten original representatives: six from Niagara Falls, New York; two from Niagara Falls, Ontario; and two from the Niagara Falls Queen Victoria Park Commission. The Board managed an initial budget of $58,000, raised to install 24 state-of-the-art arc lights, each 36 inches in diameter. These powerful lights, mounted near Horseshoe Falls, were originally developed as searchlights for Britain during World War II and each used 4,500 watts to illuminate the cascading water.
Officials pose with the General Electric searchlight system used to illuminate Niagara Falls in these undated photographs. (Photo Credit- NYS Parks)
A Historic First Illumination
On May 25, 1925, the new lighting system was unveiled, forever transforming nighttime views of Niagara Falls. To mark the occasion, an international Festival of Lights was planned, culminating in a grand dedication ceremony on June 8, 1925. The celebrations featured a light parade through Niagara Falls, New York, followed by an international gathering on the Upper Steel Arch Bridge. As the new lights powered on, thousands of spectators gazed in awe at the Falls, now bathed in a breathtaking glow.
The system, operated by a crew of three, produced an astounding 55 million candlepower per spotlight, totaling 1.32 billion candlepower. Color gelatin films were manually placed in front of each light, introducing the first-ever colored illuminations of the Falls.
A Century of Innovation and Impact
Since its inception, the NFIB has continually advanced its technology, culminating in a groundbreaking transformation in 2016. A $4 million investment replaced the aging lighting system with a cutting-edge LED array, doubling the brightness, expanding the color spectrum, and reducing energy consumption by 75%. Today, the Falls shine brighter, more vibrantly, and more sustainably than ever before.
Illuminating More Than the Falls
Beyond aesthetics, the NFIB’s work has turned Niagara Falls into a global stage for awareness and unity. Over the years, special illuminations have highlighted key historical moments, causes, and tributes:
- 2004: The Falls glowed pink for the first time to support Estée Lauder’s Breast Cancer Awareness campaign.
- 2008: The lights went dark for Earth Hour, symbolizing a commitment to combating climate change.
- 2016: A royal purple illumination marked Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday, a tribute that also served as a memorial for music icon Prince, who passed away the same day.
- 2022: The Falls turned orange to honor Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a powerful acknowledgment of Indigenous resilience.
- December 2024: The Falls were illuminated in red, white, and blue to honor former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, reflecting cross-border unity and respect.
These illuminations are more than dazzling displays; they are narratives of history, woven into the mist of Niagara Falls.
A Centennial Celebration Begins
The 100th-anniversary festivities have begun, with special illuminations and events planned throughout 2025. The grand finale, scheduled for September 12-14, 2025, promises a spectacular light show, live performances, and interactive exhibits, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.
For those planning a trip, nearby Clifton Hill, known as the “Street of Fun,” provides the perfect complement to the nightly light show. Just steps from the Falls, this vibrant entertainment district boasts attractions like the Niagara SkyWheel, Ripley’s Museum, arcades, and family-friendly dining, making it an ideal spot to continue your night after viewing the illuminations.
A Word from the Chair
“For 100 years, the Niagara Falls Illumination Board has enhanced the natural beauty of the Falls, creating unforgettable memories for millions of visitors,” says Kent Keeler, Chair of the NFIB. “This anniversary is a celebration of not just light, but of the shared experiences and connections it has fostered across generations and borders.”
Plan Your Visit
Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, witnessing the illuminated Falls is a magical experience. Some of the best viewing spots include Queen Victoria Park on the Canadian side and Prospect Point Park on the American side. For a truly immersive perspective, consider a nighttime tour with Niagara City Cruises or the Niagara SkyWheel, where you can watch the Falls glow from the water below.
As the NFIB embarks on its second century, its mission remains clear: to use light as a beacon of wonder, unity, and celebration. Be part of history—Niagara Falls is waiting to light up your night.
