Must see holiday lights that will catch your eyes

Must see holiday lights that will catch your eyes in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our first pick is

Merry and Bright Holiday Light Festival

Every Christmas during the festive season! The Garden of Lights up. The event features over 30,000 lights, many light sculptures and a visit from Santa Claus. This event occurs at Memorial University Botanical Garden until late December, so you can enjoy a walk through the garden throughout December.

Opening night of the annual Garden of Lights is always busy many locals and visitors come out in hundreds to take in the light show. 

How much are the tickets? 

Admission: Tickets can be purchased online 

All ticket prices are +HST:

$15.00 for Adults 19-59

$10.00 for Senior 60+

$7.00 for Youth Ages 12-18

$4.00 for Child Ages 3-11

Children aged two and under are free. 

Who should go: Families with kids who love Christmas lights

Merry and Bright Holiday Light Festival is an excellent place to visit during the festive season. The garden lights are on until late December, so you have time to go and see them. Please make time to visit this beautiful garden of lights. The lighting is all so different and unique, but each has something special to offer. There is something for everyone at each location, whether it’s the lights or other decorations.

Parking at the Garden is limited. However, you can park at the Marine Institute and take the free bus directly to the garden to see the lights. The buses run continuously every 10 to 20 minutes. 

Port De Grave Boat Lighting

Port De Grave Annual Boat Lighting is an event that everyone looks forward to attending each Christmas. 

Every year the colourful parade of boats is the highlight of the community in Port De Grave. 

When is the boat lighting in Port De Grave? 

The Boat Lighting ceremony in Port de Grave is a colourful spectacle that Begins in December and ends the first week of January. The boats are parked closer together, and the Christmas lights brighten up the harbour. Despite the inclement weather or one hour drive from St. John’s, people turned out to be masse annually to see what promises to be a wonderful tradition for Port de Grave.

The colourful parade of boats has attracted people from all over the province and visitors from a broad. It is estimated that over 50 fishing boats participate in the boat lighting festival each year, and over 10 thousand people visit the community to see the displays of lights each year. Port De Grave is a beautiful place to stay. So it’s nice that the town has kept this traditional Christmas celebration. You can get an update from the Port de Grave Annual Boat Lighting & Community News Facebook page. 

Bowring Park

Bowring Park is a public park along the Waterford River in St. John’s, Newfoundland. The park has a playground and duck pond and is open year-round, with specific areas available for use in winter months. Bowring Park is a vibrant place to visit both in the Christmas and winter seasons. 

Many families bring their kids to see the Bowring Park Christmas lights during the holiday season. Bowring Park lit up with Christmas lights and decorations on the trees all over the park grounds. It’s also a great place to bring your pets. 

Address: 305 Waterford Bridge Road, St John’s, NL, A1E 1E7 

Tel: 709-364-1531

Signal Hill Star

Holiday lights are an essential part of the winter experience. Holiday lights are a massive part of the holiday season and can be found all over the four regions in Newfoundland and Labrador. This year, Signal Hill is one of the best places to see these beautiful lights. Each year Cabot Tower’s massive stars light up. It has become a beacon of Christmas celebrations in the province. Driving to Signal Hill is an excellent way for you and your family to celebrate this holiday season by enjoying the view from above with views of the city at night. The beauty of Signal Hill comes from its unique location that allows you to see everything that is going on below in the city. You will not only be able to see some incredible sights but also have a fantastic time with your friends or family watching the city light Twinkle. 

Manuels River Interpretation Center Holiday Lights

Contact Information

Address: 7 Conception Bay Highway, CBS, NL

Phone: (709) 834-2099

Email: [email protected]

The Manuels River Hibernia Interpretation Centre allows visitors to examine the river’s geology, ecology, and cultural history. The centre offers enjoyable and informative experiences for people of all ages through its interactive displays, nature walks, and guided tours. The Manuels River tumbles down a succession of beautiful waterfalls, stones, and streams and deposits into the ocean in Conception Bay. Every year, you can visit to enjoy the Christmas lights along the trail.

Downtown St Johns and Communities.

There’s nothing like walking through a town on the first winter snowfall, watching the snowflakes gently fall around you and listening to carolers singing.

It’s a beautiful time of year. But, of course, no matter how much fun you have at home with your family or friends, there are still plenty of reasons to get out in the fresh air during this time! Perhaps most importantly: holiday lights! After all, it may be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy colourful light displays.

The holiday lights of a winter wonderland are what make Christmas so unique. They are an essential part of the winter experience, and I hope that you will be able to visit some of these places and get an idea of what is possible with them.

Things to do in St John’s at Christmas

• Visit Signal Hill.
• Walk around downtown to observe the lights.
•  Yellow Belly Brewery & Public House. 
• View the Christmas lights at Confederation Building.
• Watch a Christmas show at the Arts & Culture Centre.
• Watch a Christmas show at Holy Heart Theatre, St. John’s.
• Visit The Rooms to observe the decoration and Christmas decorations.
• Visit Lester’s, Farm Market.
• Watch the St John’s Christmas Parade through the city.
• Visit Manuels River Interpertation centre.

What is St. John’s, Newfoundland, famous for?

St. John’s is famous for several things:

• Signal Hill: This historic site offers panoramic views, and the Cabot Tower is where the first transatlantic wireless communication was received.
• George Street is renowned for its nightlife, with the most bars and pubs per capita in North America.
• Colourful Row Houses: Known as Jellybean Row, these brightly painted homes are iconic.
• Rich History: As one of the oldest cities in North America, it has a rich maritime history and cultural heritage.

How many days does it take to visit St. John’s, Newfoundland?

To fully experience St. John’s and its surroundings, a visit of 4 to 5 days is recommended. This allows time to explore the city’s historical sites, enjoy the local cuisine, enjoy the nightlife on George Street, and venture out to nearby natural attractions such as Cape Spear and Quidi Vidi Village.

Is St. John’s, Newfoundland, a walkable city?

Yes, St. John’s is a walkable city, especially in the downtown area, where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are concentrated. The city’s hilly terrain can be challenging, but it also offers beautiful vistas and charming streets to explore on foot.

What is the best month to visit Newfoundland?

The best months to visit Newfoundland are from late June to early September. The weather is milder during this period, and you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and iceberg spotting. July and August are viral for tourists.

What is the best time of year to visit St. John’s, Newfoundland?

The best time to visit St. John’s is during the summer, from June to early September. During this time, the weather is warm, and many festivals and events occur. This is also the peak season for whale-watching and iceberg viewing.

Is St. John’s Newfoundland expensive?

St. John’s can be moderately expensive, especially during peak tourist season. Accommodation, dining, and activities can add up, but budget-friendly options are also available. Compared to larger Canadian cities, St. John’s is relatively affordable.

Is Newfoundland expensive to visit?

Newfoundland is not excessively expensive to visit, but costs can vary depending on the time of year and type of accommodation. While certain activities and dining experiences may be costly, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy.

What is the famous street in St. John’s, Newfoundland?

George Street is famous in St. John’s for its vibrant nightlife and numerous bars and pubs. George Street is a popular spot for locals and tourists looking to experience live music and socialize.

Can you get around St. John’s without a car?

Yes, you can get around St. John’s without a car, especially downtown, where many attractions are within walking distance. You’ll have access to convenient transportation options, such as public transportation, taxis, and ride-sharing services.

How long is the ferry ride from Nova Scotia to St. John’s, Newfoundland?

There is no direct ferry to St. John’s. However, you can take a ferry from North Sydney, Nova Scotia, to either Argentia (a 16-hour ride) or Port aux Basques (a 6–8-hour ride) in Newfoundland. From there, you must drive to St. John’s, which takes approximately 1.5 hours from Argentia or 9 hours from Port aux Basques.

How long does it take to drive around St. John’s?

Driving around St. John’s can take about an hour, depending on traffic and stops. Exploring the greater St. John’s area, including nearby attractions like Cape Spear and Quidi Vidi, can take several hours.

What is the crime rate in St. John’s, Newfoundland?

St. John’s has a relatively low crime rate compared to other Canadian cities. While it experiences typical urban crime, it is generally considered a safe place for residents and visitors. 

How cheap is Newfoundland?

Newfoundland is relatively affordable compared to other parts of Canada. While some areas, especially St. John’s, can be expensive, smaller towns and rural areas, however, offer more budget-friendly options for accommodation and dining.

What is the best way to tour Newfoundland?

The best way to tour Newfoundland is by car. This allows you to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, remote villages, and natural attractions at your own pace. Renting a car is recommended if you’re flying into the province.

In what month do you see icebergs in Newfoundland?

Iceberg season in Newfoundland typically runs from late May to early June, though icebergs can sometimes be seen as late as July. The best month for iceberg viewing is usually June.

What is the best month to see icebergs in Newfoundland?

June is generally the best month to see icebergs in Newfoundland. This is when most icebergs drift along the coast, providing spectacular viewing opportunities.

When can I see puffins in Newfoundland?

Puffins can be seen in Newfoundland from late May to early September. The best months to see them are June and July, when they are most active during their breeding season.

What is the wettest month in Newfoundland?

October is typically the wettest month in Newfoundland, and it experiences the highest average rainfall.

When can you see whales in St John’s, Newfoundland?

Whale-watching season in St. John’s is from mid-June to mid-August. During this time, humpback, minke, and other whale species migrate through the waters of Newfoundland.

What should I pack for St. John’s, Newfoundland?

When visiting St. John’s, pack layers to accommodate varying weather conditions. Essentials include:

• Waterproof jacket and footwear
• Warm clothing (sweaters, hats, gloves)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Cameras and binoculars for wildlife and iceberg viewing

Can you see the Northern Lights from Newfoundland?

You can watch the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) from Newfoundland, particularly in low-light pollution areas. The best time to see them is from late fall to early spring.

Where is the best place to see whales and icebergs in Newfoundland?

Twillingate and Bonavista are Newfoundland’s best places to see whales and icebergs. These coastal areas offer excellent viewing opportunities and tours.

Are there polar bears in Newfoundland?

Polar bears are occasionally seen in the northern parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, particularly in the Labrador region. They are not commonly found in Newfoundland itself.

How long does it take to drive from one end of Newfoundland to the other?

Driving from the western end of Newfoundland (Port aux Basques) to the eastern end (St. John’s) takes approximately 9–10 hours without significant stops.

Is Fogo Island worth visiting?

Fogo Island is worth visiting for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and renowned Fogo Island Inn. It offers a distinctive experience of Newfoundland’s heritage and natural beauty.

How often can you see northern lights in Newfoundland?

The Northern Lights can be seen in Newfoundland several times a year, particularly during periods of high solar activity. The best times are during winter when nights are longer and darker.

What is the best time to see the Northern Lights?

The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter, from late September to early April, particularly around midnight or early morning.

How long is the ferry ride to Fogo?

The ferry ride to Fogo Island from Farewell, Newfoundland, takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

How much is the ferry to Fogo Island?

As of the latest information, the ferry to Fogo Island costs around $15–20 CAD per vehicle and additional fees for passengers, but prices can vary, so it’s best to check current rates.

What is so special about Fogo Island?

Fogo Island is unique for its rugged natural beauty, traditional outport culture, and the acclaimed Fogo Island Inn. It’s known for its artistic community, distinctive architecture, and stunning coastal Scenery.

Are there narwhals in Newfoundland?

Narwhals are typically found in Arctic waters and are uncommon in Newfoundland.

Are there dolphins in Newfoundland?

Yes, dolphins can be seen in the waters around Newfoundland, including species like the Atlantic white-sided dolphin and the common dolphin.

Are there killer whales in Newfoundland?

Killer whales (orcas) are occasionally sighted around Newfoundland, especially during summer.

What is Cape Spear known for?

Cape Spear is known for being the easternmost point in North America. It features a historic lighthouse and offers stunning 180-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a popular tourist spot.

Where can I see whales in Newfoundland?

Some of the best places to see whales in Newfoundland include:

• St. John’s and Cape Spear
• Trinity and Bonavista
• Twillingate
• Witless Bay Ecological Reserve

How do you see puffins in St John’s?

To see puffins near St. John’s, visit the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve island, which is home to large colonies of puffins. Boat tours from Bay Bulls can take you close to the puffin nesting sites.

How long do you need to see Newfoundland?

Plan to spend at least 7–19 days to see Newfoundland highlights. This allows enough time to explore St. John’s, the Avalon Peninsula, Gros Morne National Park, and other key attractions.