Stroll through the park and enjoy dozens of illuminated displays featuring:
- Holiday characters and winter scenes
- Colourful light installations
- Photo-friendly displays throughout the park
New displays may be added each year.
Festival of Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the City of Belleville’s annual Festival of Lights!
Each winter, Jane Forrester Park transforms into a glowing display of festive lights and holiday scenes. Residents and visitors are invited to stroll or drive through the park and enjoy dozens of colourful displays throughout the season.
The Festival of Lights runs nightly from mid-November through early January and is free for everyone to enjoy.
When and Where
Season: Mid-November to early January
Location: Jane Forrester Park, 30 South John St., Belleville
Admission: Free
The park is illuminated nightly throughout the festival season.
What to Expect
The Festival of Lights offers a festive experience for visitors of all ages.
The festival begins with a special community event in November that officially lights up the park for the season.
Opening night activities may include:
- Live entertainment
- Food vendors
- Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus
- Family photo opportunities
- The official lighting of the displays
Food vendors may be available during the opening night celebration.
During the rest of the festival season, visitors are welcome to bring a warm drink and enjoy the displays while walking through the park.
Getting There
Parking
Parking is available near Jane Forrester Park and in nearby downtown areas.
Visitors are encouraged to follow posted signage and use designated parking areas.
Walking Through the Park
The displays can be viewed by walking through the park pathways or by driving past the park along South John Street.
Accessibility
The City of Belleville works to make the Festival of Lights welcoming and accessible for everyone. Accessible parking and pathways are available near the park.
Please contact us if you require accessibility support or have questions about visiting the festival.
Plan your Visit
To make the most of your visit:
- Dress warmly for outdoor viewing
- Visit during weekday evenings for a quieter experience
- Bring family and friends to enjoy the displays together
History of the Display
From a senseless car accident tragedy on Christmas Eve in 1958, has come a testament to family love and the true spirit of Christmas. Originally developed as a tribute to their son Billy, Don and Rita Foster poured the grief over the loss of their son into building a Christmas display that would delight the young and young at heart. The car accident also took the life of Billy's friend Art "Sonny" Culloden and the Culloden family has generously donated to the refurbishment of this historic display in Sonny's memory.
Over the years, this "Foster Family" display has grown and evolved and as Mr. and Mrs. Foster aged, was lovingly assumed by Bruce and Marjorie Nickle. The display was maintained by them for 11 years on Marsh Drive. It then moved to the Tom Gavey Alemite Park under the care of the Belleville Professional Firefighters Association. The display now rests with the City of Belleville and has been skillfully restored in an effort to keep the history and spirit of the original display alive.
Learn more about the history of this beloved holiday tradition by watching the special Festival of Lights documentary, presented by The Hastings Country Historical Society and The Light Display & Gateway Signage Committee.
Support the Festival of Lights
Community donations help maintain existing displays and fund new ones for future seasons.
Donations of any amount are welcome and support:
- Refurbishing lighting displays
- Replacing bulbs and materials
- Creating new installations
Charitable tax receipts are issued for donations made through the City of Belleville.
Contact Us
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