As the mercury drops and our landscape begins to drape itself in white, Ontario offers hundreds of ways to warm your heart and soul – winter carnivals, festivals, parades, and a host of exciting events and activities.

Delight in the wondrous faces of children as floats with elves, fairy princesses, cartoon characters, and the jolly man himself take to the streets during Toronto’s annual Santa Claus Parade, the world’s largest holiday parade. Warm up to a delectable culinary experience at more than 100 of Toronto’s top dining establishments during the 14-day Winterlicious restaurant promotion.

Be awed by light festivals in dozens of towns and cities around the province including the biggest of all – the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, a dazzling event with thousands of sparkling lights and fireworks displays. Savour the nectar of frozen wine grapes at the Niagara Icewine Festival.

Don’t miss the Christmas Lights Across Canada festivities in Ottawa and, just a short drive away, Alight at Night at Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg. Be amazed by glittering ice sculptures, skate on the Rideau Canal, the largest skating rink in the world, and enjoy non-stop entertainment during Ottawa’s Winterlude.

Watch snow canoe races or brave souls take a ‘polar bear dip’ at Sault Ste. Marie’s Bon Soo Carnival. And don’t miss the warm hospitality and small town excitement of winter festivals at locales throughout rural Ontario.