Winter Light Festival - 10th Anniversary

A Milestone Celebration

This season marks a decade of sparkling magic, our 10th annual Winter Light Festival and we’re going bigger and brighter than ever. With a very special theme honouring the sister-province link between Alberta and Hokkaidō, we invite you to join in a warm-hearted winter journey full of light, culture, and memories.

What to Expect

• Wander through the garden beautifully transformed by over 170,000 shimmering lights, illuminating paths, bridges and serene ponds in soft winter glow.
• Step inside three dazzling light tunnels, each inviting you into a different world of colour and motion, an immersive entrance into wonder.
• Discover glowing pyramids and a sea of illuminated parasols suspended overhead, whimsical, playful and photo-perfect.
• For nostalgic fun, behold our life-size Lightbrite display: a childhood favourite re-imagined on a grand scale for all ages.
• Hop aboard one of the charming horse-and-wagon rides, decked in lights and winding around Henderson Lake, an enchanting way to experience the festival.
• Experience a cultural journey: as you walk the illuminated path, each area represents a different season, Haru (spring), Natsu (summer), Aki (fall) and Fuyu (winter), imbued with Japanese-Canadian design and symbolism.

Why This Year is Extra Special

• In 2025 we honour our link to the Japanese province of Hokkaidō, celebrating its 45-year friendship with Alberta. This year’s festival will include bold new feature structures, expanded displays, and fresh surprises throughout the grounds.
• The festival has earned national recognition for its innovative winter programming and community-building spirit, making this 10th anniversary truly a landmark year.
• We’re inviting first-time visitors, returning families and photographers alike to experience something new—the display evolves each year so your visit will be unique.

Plan Your Visit

• Wrap up warmly, the event is outdoors and the winter air is part of the magic. We recommend layered clothing, weather-appropriate footwear, and plenty of time to relax and meander. We close the Garden at -25 degrees Celsius (with the windchill)
• Purchase tickets in advance and check the website for any schedule updates or weather-related changes.
• Check out our many locations for exclusive discounted coupons.
• Bring your camera or smartphone: from reflective ponds to twinkling parasols and tunnels of light, unforgettable photo moments await.
• Make it a memorable outing, consider arriving early, enjoying local vendors, sipping something warm, and taking a restful stroll through the Garden as night falls.

Join Us in the magic of the Winter Light Festival

Whether you’re searching for a magical family outing, a date night under the stars, or simply want to experience the joy of winter in a whole new way, come celebrate our 10th anniversary! Let the garden illuminate your evening, your imagination and your heart.

Visit nikkayuko.com or follow us on social media for ticket information, special evening programs and the full festival schedule.