Celebrating 25 years, First Light continues to enchant families, friends, and visitors of all ages. This year’s milestone version includes all your favourite features and a few exciting new touches.
There is something truly magical about walking along a path lit by thousands of glowing candles. Add in Celtic harp music, artisan wares, warm cider, fireworks, and historic buildings filled with music and storytelling, and you have the unforgettable First Light Sainte-Marie 2025 event.
Running from November 27 to December 14, Thursday through Sunday, this 25th-anniversary edition of Ontario’s beloved seasonal celebration invites you to rediscover the magic of the holidays in a setting that blends tradition, culture, and community. Here’s your complete guide to what makes this year’s First Light a must-see.
From heritage demonstrations to live music and one of the largest holiday artisan markets in Ontario, First Light is the perfect place to embrace the season and connect with local culture.
Two Icons, One Ticket
This year, admission includes access to both Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and the Martyrs’ Shrine. Guests can explore two iconic heritage sites with one ticket.
Admission is just $15 per person including tax. Children five and under, Indigenous visitors, Canadian Armed Forces members, and support persons accompanying guests with disabilities receive free entry. Season passes are also valid.
The Candlelit Experience
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons transforms into a candlelit historic village. Visitors walk through softly lit paths, historic buildings, and cozy longhouses where costumed interpreters bring the past to life.
Over at Martyrs’ Shrine, the grounds and church sparkle with festive lights, offering a peaceful and contemplative space to reflect and enjoy the spirit of the season.
Live Music Every Night
Each night during First Light, musical performers fill the air with holiday melodies. From Celtic harpists to hand drummers and community choirs, there is music for every taste.
Explore more live music events in Simcoe County while you’re in the area.
Featured performers include:
Choir Revolution (Fridays candlelight choir)
Ruth Sutherland (Celtic harp)
Chris Walser (hand drumming and storytelling)
Doug Feaver (folk music)
Karla Crawford (pop and country, Sundays)
Ariko (French-Canadian traditional, Saturdays)
Artisan Market Magic
Get your holiday shopping started at one of the region’s most charming markets. Held indoors at the museum and Brebeuf Centre, the market includes more than 50 local vendors offering handmade items like socks, soaps, chocolates, candles, and decor.
For more great finds, check out other local holiday markets in Barrie.
Special Holiday Dining
Warm up and indulge in holiday treats with a range of food options on-site. Choose from takeout at the patio, a buffet inside Restaurant Sainte-Marie, or a premium experience inside one of the heated dining domes.
Hot chocolate and popcorn are also available throughout the site.
Dining Under the Stars
Looking for a magical dining experience? Reserve a snow globe dome.
These transparent dining spaces offer a cozy three-course meal under the stars, nestled on Sainte-Marie’s historic grounds. Reservations are required and spots fill quickly. Visit the official event page for booking details.
Get Involved: Behind-the-Scenes Experience
Want to take part in the magic before the doors officially open? Join the Behind-the-Scenes Experience from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and help light the lanterns that transform Sainte-Marie into a glowing village. Then sip on spiced apple cider in the longhouse and hear Indigenous legends shared beside a warm fire.
This peaceful, early access session offers a deeper connection to the event and the land.
Thursdays: Fireworks & Folk Tunes
Every Thursday at 7 p.m., the sky comes alive with fireworks, included in the price of admission. These stunning displays are viewable from anywhere on the Sainte-Marie grounds.
Complimentary hot chocolate and popcorn sweeten the evening even more.
Fridays: Candlelight Choir
Add your voice to the choir. Guests can join Choir Revolution for a rehearsal and performance of “Put a Little Love in Your Heart.” The choir meets from 5 to 6:30 p.m., followed by a public performance.
Participation is $15 per person, and registration is required in advance.
Saturdays: Ariko & Trad Tunes
Dance to the music of Ariko, a family band rooted in French-Canadian culture. With energetic fiddle playing and rich harmonies, their Saturday performances are a First Light favourite.
Sundays: Candle, Choir & Karla
Wrap up your weekend with live music from Karla Crawford, a special Advent Mass at Martyrs’ Shrine, and the opportunity to light a candle in the votary for remembrance or reflection.
Indigenous Voices
First Light honours its roots with storytelling by Indigenous guests from:
- Beausoleil First Nation (Troy Monague)
- Curve Lake First Nation (Del Taylor)
These guests share traditional stories that enrich the evening with cultural insight.
Historical Demonstrations
Enjoy live demonstrations including:
- Blacksmithing
- Candlemaking
- Maple syrup tasting from Coldwater Maple Company
- Herbal tea and maple shortbread sampling
These experiences bring the past to life in a hands-on way.
Birds of Prey — Up Close
On select dates, the team from Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre introduces guests to Scarlet, a majestic red-tailed hawk. Learn about local ecosystems and conservation while getting a rare close-up look at this incredible bird.
Family Fun Around Every Corner
From visits with Saint Nicholas to craft tables and cocoa stands, First Light makes sure little ones stay engaged and enchanted. The well-lit grounds are stroller-friendly and kid-safe, perfect for families.
Don’t forget to bring a non-perishable item for the Salvation Army food drive, and help spread some holiday cheer to those in need.
Plan Your Visit
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Dates | Nov 27 – Dec 14, Thursdays to Sundays |
| Hours | 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. |
| Tickets | $15 (Free for kids under 5, Indigenous guests, Armed Forces, support persons) |
| Parking | Free (arrive early) |
| Shuttles | Free between Sainte-Marie and Martyrs’ Shrine, Walmart shuttles Fridays and Saturdays |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly paths near entrance, assistance recommended |
Tips for the Best Experience
- Arrive early for parking and dinner
- Dress warmly — layers and waterproof boots are your best friends
- Bring a flashlight for darker walkways
- Use cash for artisan shopping
- Capture the moment — there are perfect photo ops everywhere
- Donate generously at the entrance to the food bank canoe
The History Behind the Lights
Built in 1639, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons was the first European settlement in Ontario, created by Jesuit missionaries to serve the Huron-Wendat people. Though abandoned and burned in 1649, it was later reconstructed through archaeological and historical research.
Today, it stands not only as a national treasure, but also as a sacred site of cultural exchange, learning, and remembrance.
First Light lets you experience this history — not just read about it — by walking the same paths illuminated by the same spirit of connection.
Celebrate 25 Years of Light and Love
First Light Sainte-Marie 2025 isn’t just an event — it’s a tradition. It’s where the past meets the present, where music meets memory, and where candles carry the stories of generations.
Come light up your holidays with joy, reflection, and togetherness. Whether you’re shopping, singing, sipping cider, or simply strolling, you’ll find something unforgettable at First Light.
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Frequently Asked Questions: First Light 2025
