‘A signature celebration of the season’: First Light is 25 years old

Candles are arranged on the historic site, Saint-Marie among the Hurons' First Light event.

Saint-Marie among the Hurons’ annual festive event has been brightening up the holidays for over two decades, and in its 25^th year, it’s adding some extra dazzle and sparkle.

First Light is an annual holiday tradition incorporating thousands of shimmering candles lighting historic pathways and illuminating family-friendly fun and activities at the historic site in Midland.

“This historic setting is the perfect backdrop for an immersive, unforgettable and made-in-Ontario experience,” says Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming.

This year, the site is partnering with Martyrs’ Shrine, a national holy and historic space honouring the lives of Canadian Martyrs. It’s celebrating 100 years of being a pilgrim destination for people from across the province and the world.

What to expect

First Light is offering walks through various light displays and exploring of the inside of Canada’s early church (at Martyr’s Shrine) with a live music soundtrack.

Guests can participate in some choral singing by joining a candlelight choir led by Choir Revolution (a weekly drop-in singing event led by Canadian country musician Brett Caswell.) After a rehearsal of Put a Little Love in Your Heart (from Scrooged), the choir will perform aglow with the light of candles in everyone’s hands.

Guests are also invited to indulge in festive dining options, like Dinner Under the Stars, a three-course prix-fixe meal in a private dome surrounded by candlelight.

Festive favourite traditions are back again this year, like the holiday market featuring over 50 local artisans. Also on offer, will be Birds of Prey demonstrations, presented by Wye Marsh.

The event seems to get bigger every year.

“First Light has grown from a small candlelit evening into a signature celebration of the season,” said Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks.

“We’re proud to welcome visitors from across Ontario to experience the magic, warmth, and wonder of this special event. Beyond its cultural significance, First Light contributes meaningfully to the regional economy, supporting local artisans, hospitality providers, and tourism partners, while offering Ontarians a joyful way to celebrate the season together.”

The site is encouraging guests to bring a non-perishable food donation for the Salvation Army food bank.

First Light will run on Thursdays through Sundays, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. from Nov. 27 to Dec. 14.

Saint-Marie among the Hurons in Midland is Ontario’s first European community.