The holiday season is about to sparkle brighter than ever in Niagara Falls, with the highly anticipated 2024 Santa Claus Parade and the iconic Winter Festival of Lights! Sponsored by Ontario Power Generation and Niagara Peninsula Energy, this year’s parade brings a dazzling lineup of festive floats, live entertainment, and a grand finale with Santa himself. With the Winter Festival of Lights illuminating the city, it’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season with loved ones.
Parade Day Details:
- Date & Time: Saturday, November 16, at 4:00 p.m.
- Location: Begins on Victoria Avenue, winding through downtown Niagara Falls
- Rain or Shine: Dress warmly and be ready for any weather; the holiday spirit shines through rain or snow!
What to Expect at the Parade
Festive Floats & Holiday Characters:
With vibrant floats, marching bands, and holiday characters, the parade brings holiday joy to life! Sponsored by the University of Niagara Falls, Santa’s Sleigh is always a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Community Giving with Project SHARE:
Kicking off the event, Project SHARE will collect food and donations to support Niagara residents in need. Consider bringing a non-perishable item or a donation as a way to give back this season.
Route and Road Closures:
The parade starts at Victoria Avenue and Armoury Street, moves north along Victoria to Valley Way, then turns onto Queen Street, ending at Centennial Square in front of City Hall. Plan your visit with road closures in mind, and arrive early for the best viewing spots.
Post-Parade Festivities
Niagara Health Foundation Tree Lighting – 5:15 p.m.:
Once the parade concludes, the holiday magic continues with the Niagara Health Foundation Tree Lighting at Centennial Square. Sponsored by Alectra, this ceremony marks the beginning of the Celebration of Lights campaign, raising funds for vital hospital equipment.
Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus – 5:30 p.m.:
Immediately following the tree lighting, gather in Centennial Square for a meet-and-greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, thanks to Niagara Helicopters. Enjoy live entertainment, hot chocolate, and food trucks—perfect for a cozy holiday photo op.
Holiday Cookie Giveaway:
Courtesy of Hodgson Custom Rolling Inc., free holiday cookies will be given out while supplies last, making for a sweet addition to your holiday experience.
Niagara Winter Festival of Lights
November 16, 2024 – January 27, 2025
The Winter Festival of Lights is back to light up Niagara Falls all season long! Just as the Santa Claus Parade kicks off the holiday celebrations, the Winter Festival of Lights transforms the city into a glowing wonderland. With millions of twinkling lights and themed displays throughout the area, including along the Niagara Parkway, Queen Victoria Park, and throughout Clifton Hill, the festival offers a spectacular experience for all ages. Wander through these magical displays and immerse yourself in the holiday ambiance.
Holiday Stroll on Clifton Hill:
After the parade, extend your festive adventure on Clifton Hill, the “Street of Fun,” where the Winter Festival of Lights continues to shine. Take a ride on the SkyWheel for a stunning aerial view of the lights, or enjoy the holiday-themed attractions along Clifton Hill, like arcades, mini-golf, and seasonal treats. With so much to see and do, it’s the perfect place to create lasting holiday memories.
Other Holiday Parades in the Niagara Region
In addition to Niagara Falls, you can catch holiday parades throughout the region:
- Fort Erie: November 23 at 5:30 p.m. along Jarvis Street
- Welland: November 23, 5-8 p.m., beginning at East Main and Wellington Streets
- Thorold: November 30 at 4 p.m., with a sensory-friendly area and complimentary hot chocolate
- Grimsby: December 7 at 5:15 p.m., featuring a “Christmas Out of This World” theme
- Port Colborne: December 7 at 6:30 p.m., a lighted parade through Steele and Killaly Streets
- Niagara-on-the-Lake: December 14 at 11 a.m., winding through historic Old Town
For those nearby, St. Catharines is hosting Let it Glow, a self-guided festival of lights from November 23 to January 5. This family-friendly event will feature illuminated displays, entertainment, and interactive light installations in Rennie Park and downtown St. Catharines.
Make It a Holiday Season to Remember!
The Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade, paired with the Winter Festival of Lights, makes for a magical start to the holiday season. Whether you’re in town for the day or staying longer, Niagara Falls offers endless holiday fun. After enjoying the parade and lights, head to Clifton Hill to keep the festivities going and make memories that will last a lifetime.