Lumina Borealis is magical and quite frankly, I love a good light festival, especially one that’s engaging, entertaining, interactive and located within a beautiful backdrop.
I found one recently that not only fits all the criteria but is also within driving distance of Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, making it a perfect winter road trip getaway.
Located in Kingston, Ontario, Lumina Borealis has become really popular, really fast. Only in its second year, more than 60,000 people are expected to attend which would surpass last years total. Sure, the effects are gorgeous but adding to the allure is the fact that all the installations are within the inner walls of Fort Henry, a National Historic Site of Canada, which makes this festival that much more special and beautiful.
The whole idea of Lumina Borealis, is to get outside and enjoy the season. Lumina is a festival focused on providing visitors with an enchanting experience of colour and light. As you walk in, through and around the fort’s walls, prepare for an explosion of the senses with beautiful visuals and animations all in beautiful, night-time winter atmosphere.
Of course it’s cold but with so many distractions, you may not feel the chill factor. In the case that you do, there are several fire pits and warming huts to keep you warm-ish. But along the self-guided 45 minute walk, not only will you get the chance to sing, dance and take in the pretty winter and animal inspired wall displays but you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a winter market.
Lumina Borealis is equivalent to a giant snow globe, inspired by the imagination of a child all wrapped in a beautiful fortress setting. It runs until February 19 and is simply a must-experience!
For more information about Lumina Borealis and how to get to Fort Henry, parking and admission costs. Also visit our Canada page for more fun things to do in Canada during any season.
A BIG thank you to the great people at Lumina Borealis for hosting me and showing me the beauty of winter at Fort Henry. All opinions are, as always, my very own.
Jim Bamboulis has held several posts over the past 12 years, including National Sportscaster, Food Host and Writer, Talk Show Host, Olympic Researcher and Travel Film-maker.
Born and raised in Toronto, Jim learned early on that the combination of travel and food meant ultimate living. Combining his insatiable creative spirit and desire to document his travels, Jim took his unshakable travel bug and set off to explore. Add the fact that Jim also grew up in a Greek household and he learned that not only does Mom always make the best meals, but as importantly learned the importance of understanding and appreciating the countless beautiful cultures and the integral role food plays in every corner of the World.
In August 2009, Jim founded Travel Mammal, a site that brings together his travels and experiences (both good and terrifying) with the hope that others are inspired to share their own. We are all storytellers, especially when it comes to travel and food. He urges everyone to be inspired, explore and love the world and the people that share it with us. Or in other words, Live to Travel and travel to live!
