Festival of Lights Kicks Off Nov. 20

This year’s Festival of Lights is set to begin Friday, Nov. 20 with a special launch night event.

Join the holiday cheer beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Jane Forrester Park (30 South John St.) for live music, food vendors, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, a spectacular drone light show (weather permitting) and more!

Gleaners Food Bank will also be on site for launch night collecting non-perishable food donations.

The Festival of Lights runs from Nov. 20 to Jan. 4 at Jane Forrester Park. This year’s display will feature three new installations: a reindeer display, a gingerbread house and a candy cane arch.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be making appearances at the park every Friday night from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. starting Nov. 27 until Dec. 18, collecting letters and holiday wishes before the big day.

“We are looking forward to another fantastic launch night event for the 2026 Festival of Lights,” said Chair of the Lighting Display Committee Councillor Garnet Thompson. “I would like to thank everyone who contributes to this event every year. Big or small, your donation and support goes a long way.”

Interested in donating to the display? Donations of all sizes are welcome. For more information on the Festival of Lights launch event and to donate, visit: Belleville.ca/FestivalofLights