The Winter Pageant of Lights has change into a beloved custom in Niagara Falls, attracting tens of millions of tourists annually. However how a lot have you learnt about its origins?
Early Beginnings in Niagara Falls, New York
The story of the competition dates again to 1980, when it started because the “Festival of Lights” on the U.S. aspect of Niagara Falls. Lasting 44 days, it was a community-driven occasion supported by sponsorship from the native tourism trade and numerous volunteers.
Highlights included a nine-story “OxyLights” show synchronized to Christmas music, the illumination of the Nabisco silos because the “Nabisco Fantasy of Lights,” and 1000’s of lights strung alongside Outdated Falls Avenue and Lackey Plaza. Indoor points of interest featured animated shows protecting 15,000 sq. toes within the Niagara Falls Conference Middle and Carborundum Middle.
Regardless of its attraction, the U.S. Pageant of Lights confronted monetary challenges and led to 2004 on account of inadequate sponsorship funding.
A New Starting in Niagara Falls, Ontario
Throughout its inaugural 12 months, the Pageant featured a modest assortment of lighting shows close to the Falls, drawing roughly 250,000 guests. Inspired by its success, the occasion expanded yearly, changing into a cherished winter custom for households and associates.
Recognizing the potential for a significant vacationer draw, Niagara Falls, Ontario, launched its personal model of the occasion in 1983, initially referred to as the “Festival of Lights” earlier than rebranding to the “Winter Festival of Lights” in 1985. This collaboration between the Niagara Falls Canada Customer and Conference Bureau, the Metropolis of Niagara Falls, and the Niagara Parks Fee debuted with a modest $18,000 finances. In its first 12 months, it welcomed 250,000 guests and 35 motor coaches.
At the moment, the competition is in its forty second 12 months and attracts over 1 million annual guests, together with 750 motor coaches.
Memorable Milestones
- Disney Partnership (1992-2013): In 1992, the Pageant launched the “Enchantment of Disney,” a partnership with Disney that introduced over 20 animated shows of traditional Disney characters to Queen Victoria Park. These shows, together with opening ceremonies that includes Disney characters, delighted guests for greater than twenty years earlier than being discontinued in 2013 when Disney restricted character appearances to its theme parks.
- Evening Parade of Lights (1998-2006): For almost a decade, the competition featured a weekly parade with illuminated floats. In 2006, funds had been reallocated to boost park lighting and shows.
- Sponsor Contributions: Over time, sponsors like CAA (2010-2012) and Ontario Energy Technology (2013 to 2019) have helped elevate the competition.
Over time, the Pageant embraced new themes and experiences, together with Korean lantern shows, creative installations, and interactive mild options. In 2020, the Pageant doubled its stock of shows, and in 2021, it prolonged its length from 54 nights to 101, providing extra alternatives for guests to expertise its magic.
At the moment’s Winter Pageant of Lights
At the moment, the Winter Pageant of Lights transforms Niagara Falls into a blinding wonderland of coloration and lightweight from mid-November by means of early January. Stretching alongside the Niagara Parkway from Dufferin Islands to vacationer districts like Fallsview Boulevard and Lundy’s Lane, the Pageant options tens of millions of lights, larger-than-life shows, and interactive experiences for all ages.
Highlights embody over 50 huge shows, corresponding to Canadian wildlife scenes, the towering two-storey Zimmerman Fountain, a 40-foot mild tunnel, and an illuminated fortress. Many timber alongside the Niagara Parkway are wrapped in vibrant lights, making a picturesque setting that enhances the festive environment.
The Pageant is organized by Niagara Falls Tourism in partnership with the Province of Ontario, Tourism Partnership of Niagara, the Niagara Parks Fee, and native Enterprise Enchancment Areas. Company sponsors, together with Ontario Lottery & Gaming Company, the Niagara Falls Bridge Fee, Ontario Energy Technology, and Cogeco, present extra help to make the Pageant a actuality.
Land Acknowledgement
Niagara Falls Tourism and the Winter Pageant of Lights respectfully acknowledge that this occasion takes place on the standard territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples. These lands, lined by the Higher Canada Treaties and guarded by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum settlement, are dwelling to many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities immediately. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the area’s historical past and the continuing relationship with Indigenous peoples whose assets and friendship contribute to our lifestyle.
Awards and Recognition
The Winter Pageant of Lights has obtained quite a few accolades through the years, together with:
- Occasion of the 12 months
- High Pageant/Occasion in Ontario
- Finest Volunteer Program
- Most Revolutionary Partnership
- Occasions of Distinction Award from Festivals and Occasions Ontario (FEO)
The American Bus Affiliation (ABA) has additionally acknowledged the Pageant as one in all its High 100 Internationally Identified Occasions. These awards mirror the Pageant’s dedication to offering distinctive experiences and fostering group delight.
The Winter Pageant of Lights continues to enchant guests with its vibrant shows and festive spirit, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Niagara Falls’ winter tourism season.
