A 19th-century Santa and a new Ferris wheel are two of the latest additions to Alight at Night, now running at Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg, Ontario.
The annual festival of illumination has been drawing families during the Christmas season since 2001, but every year the village tries to shake things up and offer something new.
This year, village staff carefully researched historical garb and then spent three weeks creating Santa’s brocaded Victorian-style cloak. A visit with Santa is included with admission. You can snap your own photo of your tot on St. Nick’s knee, or buy one by a pro photographer for $15.
Ho ho ho, ye merry gentlemen and ladies! Photo courtesy of Upper Canada Village.
Also included with the entrance fee is a ride on the new Ferris wheel, which gives you a look at the site’s million-plus lights from 50 feet above the action. Get there early if this strikes your fancy, as seats on the Ferris wheel limited.
Those who are feeling romantic can book a carriage ride for two through the park for $80, which includes admission and a gift to bring home.
This Saturday, December 13, the park is also holding Fun & Lunch with Santa, starting at 1:30pm. St. Nick will preside over the meal of hot sandwiches, and your ticket gets you back into Upper Canada Village to see the evening light displays. Prices range from $7 for kids 5 and under to $37.50 for adults, plus HST.
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If you go
Distance from Ottawa: 88km
Dates: Open select evenings until January 3, 2015.
Hours: 5pm to 9pm.
Price: $13 for adults, $10 for children and seniors, free for children 5 and under. HST is extra.
Meals: Meals, snacks and drinks are available onsite.
More information: Alight at Night