This 'picture-perfect' Ontario Christmas village has cozy carriage rides and 1 million lights

If you're looking for a "picture-perfect postcard setting" to get into the festive mood, look no further! This enchanted Christmas village in Ontario has glowing trails, nostalgic holiday activities and dreamy horse-drawn carriage rides.

From November 29 to January 4, Upper Canada Village will transform into a glowing winter wonderland, with over 1 million twinkling lights transforming every corner of this historic site.

Just one hour south of Ottawa, the Alight at Night Festival is filled with nostalgic Christmas magic. Organizers describe it as a "picture-perfect postcard setting" that's a "true winter wonderland."

As you stroll around the village, you'll find each building, tree, and pathway decked out in colourful lights. The walking trails are perfect for a scenic walk through snow-covered paths, but if you're looking for a cozier experience, you can book the Pommier Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride, where up to four guests can snuggle up for an intimate, 30-minute ride through the village.

Of course, the holiday experience wouldn't be complete without delicious festive treats. Warm up with a hot meal at Willard's Hotel or Harvest Barn, where they'll be serving holiday classics.

If you're craving something sweet, stop by the Village Café or the snack hut for a hot BeaverTail or a steaming cup of hot chocolate.

Santa's workshop will also be open from November 29 to December 23, where you can grab a festive photo with the big guy himself and share your holiday wishes.

Then, pop over to Christ Church, where classic carols are sung by costumed carollers in a scene that feels straight out of a Victorian Christmas card.

There's also a giant, glowing toy train, which kids can take a 15-minute ride on, stopping for photos along the way.

For more holiday fun, head to Crysler Hall to watch the Festive Sound and Light Show, where hundreds of vibrant lights dance along to classic holiday tunes. You can also shop for gifts and artisan products at the Village Store.

There's also a whole lineup of other activities at the festival, including snapping pics at the giant Lite-Brite installation, posing with gingerbread figures and Snowy Silhouettes, or cuddling up on the Mistletoe Loveseat for a cozy photo op.

In the Frosty Fun Zone, kids and adults alike can sip hot drinks, decorate ornaments, play holiday games, and even leave a chalk message on the Chilly Chalkboard.

When you're ready to unwind, Blitzen's Barn offers a cozy storytime session around the fireplace. One of Santa's elves will be on hand to tell classic holiday tales.

Tickets start at $17 for general admission (ages 13+), with discounts available for kids, students, and seniors. Little ones ages 0-4 are free but still need a ticket, so be sure to book ahead—tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Pommier carriage rides start at $150 and can be shared by up to four people. This package includes full access to the Alight at Night Festival and a bonus of four tickets for Upper Canada Village’s 2025 day programming.

For those who want to experience the lights but need a more accessible option, there are designated accessibility nights on December 4, 11, and 18, when guests can take a 30-minute driving tour through the village to enjoy the festival from the warmth and comfort of their vehicles.