Falls Illumination
Falls Illumination
Niagara Falls illumination is a must for any visitor! Every night of the year, the three waterfalls are lit up in glowing colours, creating a dazzling display that can be viewed from near and far.
The Best Spots to Enjoy the Falls Illumination
Looking for the best views of the Illuminations? We've got you covered with these prime spots, from front-row to aerial vistas, plus dining and hotel rooms!
By the Falls
Along the parkway, you'll find a lot of great spots to see the Illumination. Make the most of the show with these unforgettable experiences.
Dining with a View
Enjoy your evening meal at one of these restaurants, known for the amazing views of the illuminated Falls.
Hotel Views
Book a room with a view and experience it from the comfort of your hotel.
Stay & Play
Stay the night and explore everything Niagara Falls has to offer. From family-friendly adventures and romantic getaways to trips with friends, there's something for everyone in Canada's entertainment capital.
FIND HOTELS & ATTRACTIONS
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PLACES TO STAY
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THINGS TO DO
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PACKAGES
Frequently Asked Questions about Falls Illumination
Is the Illumination free to watch?
Yes, the Falls Illumination is free to watch every night of the year from public park spaces along the Niagara Parkway. If you want to view the Illumination from an attraction (Niagara SkyWheel, Skylon Tower, etc.), you'll need to pay to access the attraction.
What time do the lights come on at Niagara Falls?
The Falls are illuminated every night of the year starting after the sun sets. Check the schedule for timing throughout the year.
Why do the colours change?
Special lighting requests are reviewed by the Niagara Falls Illumination Board to support charitable and non-profit organizations and to mark important dates and holidays. A request can be made by submitting the Special Request Lighting Form.
When was Niagara Falls first illuminated?
Niagara Falls was first illuminated on September 14, 1860 to honour a visit from the Prince of Wales.
How do they light up Niagara Falls?
The history of the illumination demonstrates the advancement in lighting technology over the last 150+ years. In the beginning, the Falls were only illuminated for very special occasions. It wasn’t under 1925, when the Illumination Board was formed, that a permanent lighting system was developed.
1860: 200 Bengal lights (similar to flares) were temporarily placed in a row facing the American Falls and some under Table Rock.
1925: 24 great carbon arc lamps were installed in a row on the Ontario Power Company's water surge tank, situated next to the Refractory (Victoria Park) Restaurant.
1958: 20 new carbon arc lights were installed.
1974: The carbon lights were replaced with 20 Xenon gas spotlights.
1997: A new 21 light system was introduced, featuring much brighter and more economical lights.
2016: 100 panels of LED lights were installed, delivering twice the brightness of the Xenon spotlights while using 60% less energy.
Historic photos provided by Niagara Falls Public Library and Niagara Parks Commission
